On July 2, 2024, Sierra Leone’s President signed into law a new act that criminalizes the marriage of persons under 18 years of age. The new legislation, if properly enforced, will prevent the harmful practice of forced and early marriage that severely limits access to education, health and well-being for young girls. Penalties include a prison sentence of minimum 15 years and/or a fine.
Compiled from: Umaru Fofana, Child Marrriage Ban Welcomed in Sierra Leone, BBCNews, July 3, 2024.