Strengthening Families Conference 2025 Pushes Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, and Health in Sierra Leone
First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has stressed that empowering families, especially women and children, is crucial for building a stronger nation. Speaking at the 2025 Strengthening Families Conference in Freetown, she emphasized that families must be equipped with the right resources, values, and opportunities to drive lasting social and economic change.
Dr. Bio called on policymakers, development partners, and communities to prioritize women’s empowerment, child protection, and inclusive health systems. “The strength of our families determines the strength of our nation. When we protect children, empower women, and support parents, we invest in a prosperous Sierra Leone,” she stated.
The two-day conference, held under the theme “Strengthening Families for Sustainable Development,” brought together experts, civil society groups, and government officials to tackle pressing family welfare issues. Participants explored strategies to reduce gender-based violence, improve access to education and healthcare, and foster economic opportunities for women and youth.
UNFPA, UNICEF, and other development partners highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts to address structural challenges facing families, from poverty and unemployment to inadequate healthcare and social services. They also reiterated the need for robust community engagement to change harmful cultural practices and promote gender equality.
Other speakers at the event, including representatives from the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, called for increased investment in family-focused policies, noting that a resilient and empowered family unit is essential to achieving national development goals.
The Strengthening Families Conference concluded with a collective pledge to implement actionable measures that will safeguard children, advance women’s rights, and ensure that Sierra Leonean families can thrive in an equitable and sustainable environment.
