Sierra Leone's Chief Justice, Komba Kamanda, has been recognised for his efforts to promote gender equality and strengthen women's participation in the justice system. He received the HeForShe Champion award on November 9, 2026, during the SheArose Summit 2026 at Family Kingdom in Aberdeen, Freetown. This award acknowledges his contributions to improving access to justice and promoting women's rights in Sierra Leone.
Since taking office in December 2024, Kamanda has implemented several judicial reforms aimed at improving women's representation and strengthening the justice system. These reforms include the establishment of three Sexual Offences Model Courts in the provinces and the recruitment of more female judges and magistrates. Additionally, the Judiciary appointed its first female legal researcher under his leadership.
The SheArose Foundation, which presented the award, aims to empower women while appreciating men who contribute to their development and advancement. Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and SheArose Foundation Founder, Dr. Kadijatu Grace Kamara, described Kamanda as a leader who believes women should participate in important decision-making processes. She commended his commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for women within the Judiciary.
The HeForShe initiative promotes men's involvement in efforts to achieve gender equality by encouraging them to support women's rights, opportunities, and participation in society. Kamara encouraged other men to follow Kamanda's example in supporting women's advancement. The award recognises men who use their positions and influence to support women's progress.
Under Kamanda's leadership, the Judiciary has introduced Court of Appeal sittings in the provinces and opened the first Magistrate's Court in Mile 91, Tonkolili District. The court also received its first resident magistrate, serving four chiefdoms and 10 sections. These developments aim to improve access to justice and strengthen the justice system in Sierra Leone.
Dr. Kadijatu Grace Kamara thanked Kamanda for supporting women's advancement and encouraged him to continue promoting gender equality. The SheArose Summit 2026 brought together stakeholders to discuss women's empowerment and gender equality in Sierra Leone. The event highlighted the importance of men's involvement in promoting women's rights and opportunities.
The recognition of Kamanda's efforts to promote gender equality is a significant step towards achieving equal opportunities for women in Sierra Leone. His leadership and commitment to empowering women have set an example for other men to follow. The HeForShe Champion award is a testament to his dedication to promoting women's rights and participation in the justice system.
Key points
- Chief Justice Komba Kamanda received the HeForShe Champion award for his efforts to promote gender equality and improve access to justice in Sierra Leone.
- The award recognises Kamanda's leadership in implementing judicial reforms aimed at improving women's representation and strengthening the justice system.
- The HeForShe initiative promotes men's involvement in efforts to achieve gender equality by encouraging them to support women's rights, opportunities, and participation in society.
