Sierra Leone Hosts Africa Women Leadership Conference 2026 as Minister Pushes for Stronger Gender Reforms.

The opening of the Africa Women Leadership Conference (AWLC 2026) in Sierra Leone’s capital saw the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs restate the nation’s dedication to boosting female leadership and equitable treatment.

This high-level gathering united prominent women leaders, policymakers, and advocates from across the continent. Their aim: to debate methods for deepening women’s involvement in governance, development, and decision-making.

Delivering the keynote, the Minister pointed to progressive legal tools now in force. These include the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (2022), the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2024), and the Child Rights Act (2025). She said such laws continue to shield women and children while widening avenues for inclusion and authority.

Her Ministry has launched several active programmes. Among them are mentorship schemes for young women, nationwide awareness drives on gender parity, targeted backing for female entrepreneurs, and reinforced efforts to fight sexual and gender-based violence.

The conference also celebrated African women whose achievements fuel transformation across the continent. Their presence highlighted how crucial female changemakers are to Africa’s renewal agenda.

Talks aligned with global and regional blueprints, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Attendees renewed their pledge to inclusive, lasting progress.

Acknowledging persistent hurdles, cultural norms, and structural imbalances, the Minister stressed the government’s determination to enforce gender policies more effectively. She also underscored the need to expand girls’ access to education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while promoting women’s leadership in rising fields like climate action.

The AWLC 2026 opening closed with a call for joint action, mutual support, and sustained investment in women and girls as essential drivers of national and continental growth.

Correspondent-Kelvin Mark Kargbo

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