The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a landmark resolution establishing 27 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage on Friday, 4 September 2026 in New York, United States, marking a major milestone in the global campaign to protect millions of girls from a practice that threatens their childhood, education, health, dignity and future.

The resolution, A/80/L.99, was championed by Sierra Leone’s First Lady and President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, whose advocacy against child marriage and other forms of violence affecting women and girls has gained international attention.

Its adoption creates an annual global platform through which Governments, Civil Society Organisations, development partners, traditional and religious leaders, survivors and communities can strengthen advocacy and accelerate practical measures to eliminate child, early and forced marriage.

Reacting to the historic development, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio declared: “Today, the world chose our girls.”

For the Sierra Leonean First Lady, the campaign carries deep personal significance. Recounting her own childhood experience, she said her future was almost taken away when adults decided she should be married while she was still a child.

“I did not choose that path ; it was chosen for me,” she said, explaining that resisting the decision came at an enormous personal cost, including leaving her home, family and country to pursue a future of her own choosing.

She stressed that millions of girls facing similar circumstances do not have the opportunity to escape, making the UN decision more than a diplomatic accomplishment.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio described child marriage as a violation that deprives girls of their childhood, education, dignity and right to determine their own futures.

“I have always believed that child marriage is not culture; it is a crime. It is not tradition; it is theft: of childhood, of education, of dignity, of the right to decide one’s own life,” she stated.

While celebrating the achievement, the First Lady cautioned that adopting the resolution should be regarded as the beginning of intensified global action rather than the conclusion of the campaign.

“A resolution is a beginning, not an ending,” she said, stressing that an international observance alone cannot keep girls in school or prevent forced marriages. Instead, she argued, 27 November should serve as a permanent platform for countries to renew commitments, measure progress, share successful interventions and mobilize resources.

The achievement followed sustained collaboration involving African First Ladies, Governments, grassroots organisations, survivors and international child-rights advocates. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio particularly acknowledged Bhuwan Ribhu, founder of Just Rights for Children, as well as OAFLAD and other partners who supported the campaign.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio congratulated the First Lady, describing the adoption as another important milestone arising from her longstanding commitment to protecting women and girls.

“Protecting girls has always been a heartfelt commitment for Fatima,” President Bio said, adding that Sierra Leone is proud of her achievements in advancing women’s rights internationally.

The historic development also attracted praise from former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who highlighted the devastating consequences of child marriage and commended Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for championing the resolution.

Hillary Clinton noted that an estimated 12 million girls are married before turning 18 every year, depriving many of opportunities to grow up safely, remain in school and fully contribute their talents and ideas to society.

She described child marriage as one of the most urgent and preventable violations of girls’ rights and said the UN resolution represents an important step towards ensuring that girls and young women can determine their own futures.

Philanthropist and women’s empowerment advocate, Sheryl Sandberg, also celebrated the development, crediting Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s leadership and calling for countries to translate the international commitment into stronger laws, investment in girls’ education and health, and effective protection mechanisms.

“This is what happens when women lead,” Sheryl Sandberg said, congratulating Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and campaigners working towards ending child marriage.

The resolution was advanced with support from Sierra Leone alongside Cabo Verde, Costa Rica and Morocco, placing the issue firmly before the international community and reinforcing demands for coordinated global action.

For Sierra Leone, the development represents a significant moment on the international stage, positioning the country at the forefront of a global campaign addressing one of the most persistent challenges affecting girls.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio urged oGvernments and communities to ensure that the resolution produces measurable results, insisting that every girl must have the freedom to grow, learn and make decisions about her future.

“So from this day forward, every 27 November, I ask the world to remember why we did this,” she said. “Remember the girl who is told her body and her future belong to someone else’s decision.”

Her concluding message was equally emphatic: “Let girls grow. Let girls learn. Let girls choose.”

With 27 November now designated as an annual International Day, attention will shift towards transforming the global commitment into concrete action capable of protecting girls at community and national levels.

For Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the historic UN decision carries both an international and deeply personal message: “Today, the world chose our girls. Tomorrow, we begin the work of proving we meant it.” https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64093

 

CFAO Mobility Sierra Leone has unveiled the sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 and the newly introduced Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, bringing two new models into the Sierra Leonean market. The vehicles were unveiled on Friday, September 4, at CFAO Mobility’s facility on Lightfoot Boston Road, Freetown, under the theme:  “Adventure Meets Innovation.”

The sixth-generation RAV4 comes with improved hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, a redesigned exterior and interior, advanced digital technology and enhanced Toyota Safety Sense systems aimed at improving efficiency, performance and safety. The RAV4 is being sold for US 60,000.

The new Land Cruiser FJ, meanwhile, is a more compact SUV designed for both urban and off-road driving. It combines four-wheel-drive capability, improved maneuverability, modern safety features and a customizable interior while maintaining the durability and reliability associated with the Land Cruiser brand. The Land Cruiser FJ is being sold for US$69,000.

Speaking at the unveiling, Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Sierra Leone, Geoffrey De Marcellus, said Toyota is developing vehicles with African customers and local driving conditions in mind. He said vehicles imported by CFAO Mobility are “tropicalized” and adapted to conditions in Sierra Leone, including dust and fuel quality, which he said could affect vehicles not designed for the local environment.

Geoffrey De Marcellus also introduced Toyota’s new brand message, “TO YOU, TOYOTA,” replacing the previous “Toyota for Life” slogan. He said the new message reflects Toyota’s focus on developing mobility solutions with customers at the centre.

“We are making mobility specifically with YOU in mind,” he said, while stressing the company’s focus on safety and security.

He also used the occasion to raise awareness about Toyota’s worldwide Takata airbag replacement campaign, particularly for owners of older Toyota vehicles. According to GeoffreyDe Marcellus, some vehicles manufactured between 2006 and 2014, including models such as the Corolla, 4Runner and Fortuner, may be fitted with affected Takata airbags.

He encouraged owners to contact CFAO Mobility with their vehicle’s serial number to determine whether their vehicle is affected, noting that the replacement is provided free of charge, regardless of the vehicle’s age or whether the owner is a regular CFAO customer.

Sales and Marketing Manager at CFAO Mobility Sierra Leone, Calvin Hans-Kawa, described the unveiling as the beginning of a new chapter for Toyota’s RAV4 and Land Cruiser families.

He said the RAV4 has evolved from a vehicle used for everyday commuting and family activities into a more connected and technologically advanced SUV designed around the different ways people live and drive.

On the Land Cruiser FJ, Hans-Kawa said Toyota is combining the brand’s traditional principles of reliability, durability and off-road capability with a more compact design.

He said the FJ is built around the concept of “Freedom & Joy”, giving drivers the confidence to move from city roads to more difficult terrain.

The unveiling forms part of CFAO Mobility Sierra Leone’s efforts to expand Toyota’s vehicle offerings in the country while providing customers with newer technologies, safety features and vehicles adapted to local conditions. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64080

 

The Patriotic Advocacy Network Sierra Leone (PAN-SL) has commenced the third edition of its Leadership and Public Speaking Masterclass (LPMC) 2026, bringing together 150 young people for intensive training in leadership, communication, strategic thinking and personal development.

The 12-day programme, which started on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, at the Freetown Secondary School for Girls (FSSG) in Freetown, will continue until 12 September under the theme, “Empowering Voices; Leading with Impact and Authenticity.”

Designed to prepare young people to contribute meaningfully to national development, the masterclass features more than 20 practical modules covering effective leadership, public speaking, self-discipline, emotional intelligence, financial management and independence, financial compliance and the ethical use of artificial intelligence.

Opening the programme, Convener of the Leadership and Public Speaking Masterclass, Ansumana Keita Esq., said the initiative provides young people with practical leadership and communication skills needed to become responsible citizens and effective leaders.

He encouraged participants to actively engage facilitators, ask questions and make maximum use of the knowledge and experiences being shared throughout the programme.

Ansumana Keita stressed that leadership goes beyond occupying positions of authority, noting that effective leaders must continuously develop themselves and translate knowledge into meaningful action.

He challenged participants to see the masterclass as an opportunity for personal transformation, leadership development and community engagement rather than merely another training programme.

According to him, the ultimate success of the initiative will be determined by how participants apply the knowledge and skills acquired to address challenges and positively influence their communities.

Declaring the programme officially open, Ansumana Keita reaffirmed PAN-SL’s commitment to creating opportunities that strengthen young people’s leadership and communication capacities.

Delivering a session on the Foundation of Leadership, leadership trainer Dr. Ibrahim Alusine Kebe said effective leadership begins with self-management and personal discipline.

“You cannot effectively lead others if you have not learned how to lead yourself. Discipline is the foundation upon which sustainable leadership is built,” Dr. Ibrahim Alusine Kebe told participants.

He introduced John C. Maxwell’s five levels of leadership, position, permission, production, people development and pinnacle, explaining how leaders can progress from simply holding positions to creating sustainable impact.

Dr. Ibrahim Alusine Kebe identified self-mastery, character, vision, people and action as essential components of responsible leadership. He stressed that leadership should be measured not merely by titles but by influence, results and positive transformation.

Public Speaking Coach, Iris Aminata Bangura, speaking on Mastering the Fundamentals of Public Speaking, challenged participants to build confidence and competence in communicating their ideas.

“Your voice has value, but having a voice is not enough. You must learn how to communicate your ideas clearly, confidently and responsibly,” she said.

Iris Aminata Bangura identified content, delivery and connection as three major pillars of effective public speaking, explaining that speakers must properly structure their messages, deliver them confidently and establish meaningful connections with their audiences.

Alice Cecilia Sesay, a broadcast journalist with the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), reinforced the importance of consistent practice.

“Public speaking is not a gift; it is a muscle that people develop over time,” she stated.

She advised participants to research their subjects, understand their audiences and organize presentations around a clear introduction, body and conclusion. She also encouraged them to seek constructive feedback and regularly practice speaking before others.

Lawyer and advocate, Daniel Sawaneh Esq., addressing participants on Strategic Thinking and Visionary Leadership, described strategic thinking as the ability to analyse complex situations, anticipate potential outcomes and make decisions aimed at achieving long-term success.

He identified critical thinking, problem-solving, forecasting, adaptability, decisiveness, creativity and collaboration as important competencies for emerging leaders.

Daniel Sawaneh encouraged participants to look beyond immediate difficulties, consider different perspectives and develop the ability to anticipate future opportunities and risks.

Sheka Putka Kamara, a lecturer at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, focused on Problem Solving and Decision Making, urging participants to change how they perceive challenges.

“Problem solving is an important component of human life. It is a strategic management practice,” Sheka Putka Kamara said.

He stressed that properly identifying and understanding a problem must precede attempts to solve it.

“Different problems, different approaches, different solutions,” he said, urging participants to avoid applying a single method to complex challenges.

Barrister Abu Bakarr Fomba Swaray Esq., speaking on Crafting Powerful and Persuasive Speeches, encouraged participants to develop speeches around ideas and issues that matter to society.

He introduced the RACE framework, Research, Action, Communication and Evaluation, as a practical approach to speech development. He explained that research helps speakers understand issues, action determines what should be done, communication shapes how the message is delivered, while evaluation measures effectiveness.

Participants said the programme was already strengthening their understanding of leadership and communication.

Admire Turay said the training had changed her perception of leadership, noting that leadership is not about waiting for a title but taking initiative, accepting responsibility and contributing to the development of others.

Another participant, Dero Kamara, described the masterclass as an important opportunity to develop confidence and practical skills that could subsequently be shared with others.

PAN-SL officials said investment in young people remains critical to strengthening their participation in national development. Participants were therefore encouraged to network, exchange experiences and establish relationships extending beyond the programme.

As the masterclass continues until 12 September, facilitators are expected to lead interactive sessions, practical exercises, discussions and public-speaking activities.

PAN-SL hopes that by the end of the programme, participants will emerge with stronger confidence, practical leadership abilities and communication skills, enabling them to use their voices responsibly, provide leadership in their communities and contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64087

 

The Ministry of Health has launched a mentorship programme for 60 medical equipment technicians, commonly referred to as biomedical engineers, as part of efforts to strengthen the maintenance, safety and effective use of medical equipment across Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.

The programme, launched on Thursday, 3 September 2026, is designed to develop a new generation of skilled biomedical personnel capable of ensuring that critical medical equipment remains functional, properly calibrated and safe for use in hospitals and other health facilities.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mustapha Kabba, officially launched the initiative on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, who has played a key role in advancing the Biomedical Unit since its establishment in 2025.

A total of 60 technicians have been enrolled in the first cohort of the mentorship programme, marking another important step in the Government’s efforts to strengthen technical capacity within the health sector.

UNICEF is supporting the initiative, including facilitating the procurement of technical training equipment required to provide participants with practical skills and hands-on experience.

The programme places patient safety at the centre of biomedical engineering. Medical equipment plays a critical role in modern healthcare, ranging from diagnosis and monitoring to treatment and emergency interventions. Ensuring that such equipment operates effectively is therefore essential to delivering quality healthcare.

Properly maintained and correctly operated medical devices can contribute to faster and more accurate diagnoses, safer treatment and improved outcomes for patients. Faulty or poorly maintained equipment, on the other hand, can disrupt healthcare delivery and potentially place patients at risk.

The initiative is also expected to help protect Government investments in modern medical equipment. Through improved technical expertise in installation, operation, calibration, preventive maintenance and repairs, the Ministry hopes to extend the lifespan of equipment and reduce unnecessary breakdowns and replacement costs.

Building local biomedical engineering capacity could also reduce dependence on external technicians for routine maintenance and repairs, allowing health facilities to respond more quickly when equipment develops technical problems.

Beyond the first cohort of 60 technicians, the mentorship programme has been structured with long-term sustainability in mind.

Experienced local biomedical engineers will work closely with emerging technicians to transfer practical knowledge, professional standards and institutional experience. The approach is intended to ensure that critical technical expertise remains within Sierra Leone’s healthcare system and is continuously passed on to future generations.

The programme forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Health to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and ensure that investments in sophisticated medical technologies are matched by the human capacity required to operate and maintain them.

By developing a sustainable pool of qualified biomedical personnel, the Ministry expects to improve equipment reliability, safeguard public investments and, ultimately, enhance the quality and safety of healthcare services delivered to patients across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64083

 

Three hundred schoolchildren from different wharf and coastal communities across Freetown have received educational materials from the GEED Foundation as part of the organization’s continuing efforts to support vulnerable families and promote access to education.

The school supplies were distributed during a ceremony held at the Government Municipal Secondary School in Kissy Dockyard, bringing together beneficiaries, parents, community leaders and other stakeholders from nearly ten coastal communities in the capital.

The initiative forms part of the GEED Foundation’s educational and humanitarian interventions and is intended to complement the Government’s Free Quality School Education programme by helping parents meet some of the basic learning needs of their children.

Speaking during the presentation, Councillor Tutu of Freetown’s Central Ward commended the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of GEED Foundation, Ambassador Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, for his contribution to the welfare of vulnerable people.

Councillor Tutu described Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin as an exceptional Sierra Leonean who has distinguished himself in the banking sector while maintaining a strong commitment to supporting disadvantaged communities.

Councillor Zakaria Kanneh of Gloucester Village similarly praised the Foundation for what he described as its longstanding commitment to education and community development.

He recalled that GEED Foundation previously collaborated with Excel Daycare, Nursery, Primary and Secondary School to provide school furniture worth thousands of Leones to schools within the Gloucester community.

The ceremony also attracted Harbour Masters from coastal communities whose children were among the beneficiaries. Their relationship with the Foundation has strengthened following their participation in Sierra Leone’s first Coastal Unity Boat Race, which was sponsored by GEED Foundation last year.

Addressing parents and children at the event, Ambassador Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin encouraged families to place education at the centre of their children’s development, describing learning as one of the most effective pathways for breaking the cycle of poverty.

He stressed that parents have an important responsibility to ensure their children remain in school and receive the necessary encouragement to pursue their academic ambitions.

Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin reaffirmed GEED Foundation’s commitment to supporting education and vulnerable communities across Sierra Leone, noting that investment in children’s education could have a lasting impact on families, communities and the country’s development.

He further underscored the importance of collective action among parents, communities, institutions and development-oriented organisations in creating opportunities for children, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The distribution of the school materials was welcomed by parents and community representatives, who said the intervention would help ease some of the financial burden associated with preparing children for school.

Representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and Rokel Commercial Bank were also among the stakeholders who attended and made statements during the ceremony.

The latest intervention adds to GEED Foundation’s growing portfolio of educational and community-based initiatives, reinforcing its stated commitment to improving opportunities for children and supporting vulnerable communities across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64072

 

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has completed a two-day specialized training programme for 128 personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), strengthening their preparedness for deployment on United Nations peacekeeping operations.

The intensive pre-deployment programme concentrated on International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), areas considered critical to the professional and ethical conduct of personnel serving in international peacekeeping environments.

Structured to provide troops with a strong legal and human rights foundation, the training was designed to ensure that Sierra Leonean peacekeepers understand their obligations under international law and comply with the operational and ethical standards expected by the United Nations.

The first phase of the programme, conducted under the theme “The Peacekeeper’s Legal Compass,” examined the application of International Humanitarian Law in contemporary conflict situations.

Participants were taken through practical aspects of international law, military doctrine and relevant case studies to strengthen their understanding of the legal boundaries governing peacekeeping operations.

Particular attention was given to the protection of civilians, medical personnel and civilian objects during armed conflicts and other volatile situations. The sessions also addressed the lawful use of force and the responsibilities of military personnel when operating in complex environments where the protection of vulnerable populations remains a major priority.

The second phase placed strong emphasis on preventing misconduct, particularly offences related to GBV and SEA.

The 128 personnel were briefed on their legal and professional responsibilities to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse within communities where they may be deployed. Discussions also covered the United Nations’ Zero-Tolerance Policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, including accountability and disciplinary mechanisms applicable to peacekeeping personnel.

Participants further examined how to identify and respond appropriately to gender-based violations in unstable operational settings, where women, children and other vulnerable groups may face heightened risks.

The training comes amid continued international efforts to strengthen accountability, discipline and respect for human rights within UN peacekeeping operations.

CHRDI’s intervention is expected to reinforce the capacity of RSLAF personnel to carry out their responsibilities professionally while respecting international humanitarian and human rights standards.

By integrating legal awareness, civilian protection, gender sensitivity and misconduct prevention into pre-deployment preparations, the initiative seeks to ensure that Sierra Leonean peacekeepers are equipped not only to respond effectively to security challenges but also to uphold the values and standards associated with United Nations peacekeeping.

The programme further underscores the importance of preparing troops to represent Sierra Leone professionally on the international stage while contributing to the protection of civilians, maintenance of peace and promotion of human dignity in countries affected by conflict. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64076

 

The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI) has strengthened its partnership with the United Nations in Sierra Leone as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate digital transformation, improve data governance and enhance the country’s digital infrastructure.

Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah, met with representatives of the United Nations system in Sierra Leone, including UN Resident Coordinator, Seraphine Wakana and officials from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), for discussions centred on data governance, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.

The engagement focused particularly on addressing the fragmentation of Government data across Ministries, Departments and Agencies, while strengthening institutional capacity for effective data management and cybersecurity.

As part of the engagement, Minister Salima Bah and her team took the UN delegation on a tour of the Government Data Centre at the National Communications Authority (NatCA) Tower, highlighting the Government’s investment in building a more secure and coordinated digital ecosystem.

The Ministry also outlined plans to establish a redundancy site at State House to strengthen the resilience and continuity of critical Government digital services and infrastructure.

Central to the Government’s digital transformation agenda is the development of a comprehensive Data Governance Framework that will provide clear guidelines on how Government data is classified, managed, shared and utilized across public institutions.

The framework is expected to address existing gaps in data management while promoting greater coordination and responsible information-sharing among Government institutions.

Under Minister Salima Bah’s leadership, MoCTI has continued to advance initiatives aimed at modernizing Sierra Leone’s digital landscape. These include the establishment and strengthening of the Government Data Centre, advancement of the Digital Government Bill and efforts to equip civil servants with essential skills in emerging technologies.

The Ministry considers capacity building an important component of the transformation process, particularly as new technologies increasingly influence public administration, service delivery and national development.

Strengthening the digital capabilities of civil servants is expected to enable Government institutions to make better use of technology and data in planning, decision-making and the delivery of essential services to citizens.

The engagement with the UN further underscores the importance of partnerships in supporting Sierra Leone’s transition towards a more integrated, secure and data-driven Government.

Through improved data governance, stronger cybersecurity systems and modern digital infrastructure, the Government aims to create an environment in which public institutions can use reliable information more effectively to formulate policies, allocate resources and improve service delivery.

The Ministry maintains that those interventions will ultimately contribute to a more efficient and responsive public sector, while positioning Sierra Leone to take greater advantage of opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving global digital economy.

The strengthened collaboration between MoCTI and the United Nations is therefore expected to provide additional technical and institutional support as Sierra Leone advances its broader digital transformation agenda. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/64068