Sierra Leonean Member of Parliament Mariama Munia Zombo has been recognized for her efforts in advancing girl child protection. She received the Legislative Leadership and Girl Child Protection Advocacy Award at the 2026 African Matriarch Impact Awards. This award acknowledges her contribution to ending child marriage and promoting girls' rights in Sierra Leone. Zombo represents Pujehun District in Parliament.
Zombo's award-winning work involves her role in advancing legislation that prohibits child marriage in Sierra Leone. In June 2024, she introduced the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill as a private member's bill in Parliament. The proposed legislation received unanimous approval from lawmakers on June 20, 2024. This bill eventually became the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, after receiving presidential assent.
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, sets 18 as the minimum legal age for marriage and provides penalties for individuals involved in child marriage. It also addresses forced child marriage and cohabitation with children, while establishing protections for victims. The Act commenced on December 14, 2024, marking a significant step in Sierra Leone's efforts to strengthen legal protection for girls and prevent early and forced marriages.
Zombo's selection for the award recognizes her legislative role in securing the passage of the law. It highlights the contribution of women in leadership to advancing child protection and gender equality. The African Matriarch Impact Awards, organised by Heroes Media Group, recognise African women whose leadership, professional achievements and contributions have made an impact in their communities and institutions.
The 2026 awards ceremony will be held under the theme, “Celebrating Women of Leadership, Impact and Legacy,” on Friday, November 27, at 7:30 p.m. at YSC Hall, Wilkinson Road, Freetown. This event aims to celebrate women who have made significant impacts in their respective fields. Zombo's recognition adds to the continental attention on Sierra Leone's legislative efforts to protect girls from child marriage and strengthen the rights and welfare of children.
The award is a testament to Zombo's dedication to promoting girls' rights and protecting them from child marriage. Her efforts have contributed significantly to the country's progress in addressing this critical issue. The recognition also underscores the importance of women's leadership in driving positive change in society.
Zombo's achievement serves as an inspiration to women and girls across Sierra Leone. Her work demonstrates the impact that individuals can have in creating positive change in their communities. The award ceremony will provide an opportunity for Zombo to share her experiences and insights with other women leaders and change-makers across Africa.
Key points
- Sierra Leonean MP Mariama Munia Zombo received the Legislative Leadership and Girl Child Protection Advocacy Award at the 2026 African Matriarch Impact Awards.
- Zombo introduced the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill, which became the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2024, setting 18 as the minimum legal age for marriage.
- The award recognizes Zombo's legislative role in securing the passage of the law and highlights the contribution of women in leadership to advancing child protection and gender equality.
