By: Mr. Abdulai Sahid Jalloh, Expert in International relations, Humanitarian Aid, Diplomacy, Conflict Analyst, Service delivery and UN Peace Keeping.
Here’s a chronological sequence of the First Ladies of Sierra Leone since its independence in 1961, along with their notable achievements:
1. Rebecca Stevens (1961–1967)
Spouse: Sir Milton Margai (First Prime Minister)
Rebecca Stevens was the first First Lady of Sierra Leone.
She supported her husband’s government in promoting education and healthcare, particularly for women and children.
2. Lady Nancy Maada Constance Margai (1967)
Spouse: Albert Margai (Second Prime Minister)
Played a key role in fostering cultural preservation and education.
Advocated for women’s empowerment and literacy during her tenure.
3. Rebecca Kamara (1971–1985)
Spouse: Siaka Stevens (First Executive President)
Advocated for social welfare and women’s issues.
Supported the development of arts and crafts as a way to empower rural women.
4. Hannah Momoh (1985–1992)
Spouse: Joseph Saidu Momoh
Promoted healthcare initiatives, particularly in addressing maternal health.
Focused on improving access to clean water and sanitation in rural areas.
5. Patricia Kabbah (1996–1997, 1998–2007)
Spouse: Ahmad Tejan Kabbah
Played a significant role in humanitarian efforts during and after the Sierra Leone Civil War.
Advocated for the rights and welfare of war victims, especially women and children.
Championed education for girls.
6. Sia Nyama Koroma (2007–2018)
Spouse: Ernest Bai Koroma
A trained biochemist and psychiatric nurse, she focused on health initiatives.
Launched the “First Lady’s Attitudinal and Behavioral Change Initiative”.
Advocated for maternal and child health through programs like the “Free Health Care Initiative.”
Promoted the prevention of teenage pregnancy and early marriage.
7. Fatima Maada Bio (2018–Present)
Spouse: Julius Maada Bio
Renowned for her advocacy for women’s and children’s rights.
Launched the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign to fight against early marriage, sexual violence, and rape.
Played a significant role in improving the healthcare system through initiatives targeting maternal and child mortality.
Actively promotes girls’ education and empowerment, particularly through scholarships and mentorship programs.
Advocates against gender-based violence on national and international platforms.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the current First Lady of Sierra Leone, has made remarkable contributions to the nation through various initiatives and advocacy efforts. Her achievements reflect her dedication to addressing critical issues and uplifting marginalized groups in society. Here are additional highlights of her accomplishments:
Advocacy and Campaigns
“Hands Off Our Girls” Campaign
A flagship initiative aimed at ending early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and sexual violence against girls and women.
Partnered with international organizations and stakeholders to amplify the campaign’s impact globally.
Tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
Instrumental in the declaration of rape and sexual violence as a national emergency in Sierra Leone.
Advocated for stricter laws and policies to protect women and girls from sexual violence.
Promotion of Women’s Rights
Spearheaded programs to empower women economically through skill development and entrepreneurship initiatives.
Education Initiatives
Girls’ Education Advocacy
Provides scholarships to underprivileged girls, promoting access to education for marginalized communities.
Encourages the re-enrollment of pregnant girls into schools, challenging societal stigmas.
Mentorship Programs
Organized mentorship schemes to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams and build confidence.
Healthcare Contributions
Maternal and Child Health
Advocates for better healthcare facilities and services for mothers and children.
Promotes awareness on safe motherhood practices and neonatal care.
Fistula Awareness and Treatment
Leads initiatives to address obstetric fistula, providing medical support and reintegration programs for affected women.
Cultural and National Identity
Preservation of Sierra Leonean Heritage
Actively promotes the nation’s cultural identity and values through arts, music, and storytelling events.
Peace Advocacy
Works to unite various communities in Sierra Leone by promoting dialogue and reconciliation.
International Recognition and Partnerships
Global Advocacy
Represents Sierra Leone in international forums, discussing issues such as gender equity, education, and healthcare.
Strengthened partnerships with international organizations like the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS to further developmental goals.
Awards and Recognitions
Honored with several international awards for her relentless efforts in championing women’s and children’s rights.
Social Welfare Programs
Support for Vulnerable Groups
Provides aid to orphans, widows, and other vulnerable populations through various humanitarian initiatives.
Played a pivotal role in food and medical aid distribution during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eradicating Street Begging
Advocates for programs to integrate street children into schools and provide vocational training to youths.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio is widely recognized as a transformative figure whose actions have had a profound impact on the lives of many Sierra Leoneans, particularly women and children. Her vision and leadership continue to leave an indelible mark on the nation’s path toward sustainable development.
These women have played instrumental roles in promoting social, educational, and health programs that complement the policies of their respective spouses, contributing significantly to Sierra Leone’s development.
