By Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
Kenema District entered the annals of history on Friday as Madam Francess Jambawai was inaugurated as the district’s first female Chairperson. The landmark event, held in Kenema, attracted high-profile dignitaries, including Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Madam Fatima Maada Bio, along with government officials, traditional leaders, and residents.
The inauguration was hailed as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of gender equality, with First Lady Fatima Maada Bio describing it as a victory for women across the nation.
“This is a groundbreaking moment not just for Madam Jambawai but for all women who dare to dream of leadership and change,” the First Lady stated during her keynote address. She underscored the importance of breaking traditional barriers and highlighted women’s vital role in fostering inclusive governance.
Madam Jambawai’s election comes as a direct result of the government’s policy initiatives, including the 30% quota for women in leadership positions. The First Lady praised this measure as a transformative step that has opened new pathways for women to engage meaningfully in national decision-making.
The First Lady also acknowledged the tangible progress made in Kenema District under the administration of President Julius Maada Bio, citing infrastructure improvements, expanded access to electricity, and enhancements in education as key achievements. She credited these advancements to the unwavering support of Kenema residents for the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
“Kenema is a beacon of hope and development, thanks to your dedication,” she told the gathering, assuring them of the government’s continued commitment to their welfare.
In her inaugural speech, Madam Jambawai expressed gratitude to the people of Kenema for entrusting her with leadership, pledging to prioritize policies that promote development, equity, and inclusivity.
“This is a responsibility I do not take lightly,” she affirmed. “Together, we will work to ensure Kenema continues to thrive as a model of progress and unity.”
Her commitment to collaborative leadership resonated with attendees, who celebrated the historic occasion as a turning point for the district and an inspiration for women across Sierra Leone.
The ceremony’s celebratory atmosphere reflected its broader significance as a catalyst for advancing gender equality in Sierra Leone. Observers lauded Madam Jambawai’s inauguration as a symbol of the progress made in empowering women and dismantling societal barriers.
The event closed with a renewed call for efforts to sustain and expand opportunities for women in leadership, marking this moment as a turning point in Sierra Leone’s journey toward inclusivity and sustainable development.
Madam Jambawai’s leadership ushers in a new chapter for Kenema District and serves as a beacon of hope for gender parity in governance nationwide.
