Honorable Catherine Zainab Tarawally, a prominent figure in Sierra Leonean politics, was born on December 31st, 1980, in Makeni, Bombali District, in the Northern Region of Sierra Leone. With a diverse educational background encompassing a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed), Higher National Diploma (HND), Ordinary National Diploma (OND), and various certificates, she embarked on a career path that led her to become a distinguished journalist.
Advocacy and Passion:
Zainab Tarawally is widely recognized as a vital accountability and social justice advocate. Her passion lies in addressing pressing issues affecting her constituents, particularly healthcare, clean water access, and youth empowerment. Believing fervently in women’s empowerment as agents of change, she endeavors to leverage available resources effectively to uplift her community.
In March 2018, Honourable Catherine Zainab Tarawally contested the Member of Parliament for Constituency 037 position in Bombali District, Northern Region, under the All People’s Congress party (APC) banner. Despite encountering significant challenges from male competitors, her unwavering commitment and dedication resonated with the electorate, leading to her successful election.
Parliamentary Leadership:
Zainab Tarawally’s leadership qualities and dedication to accountability have earned her esteemed positions within the Sierra Leone Parliament. She serves as the Deputy Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee, where her respect for diverse opinions and unwavering advocacy for human rights have been instrumental in shaping legislative agendas. Additionally, she is a valued member of the Fisheries and Marine Resources Committee and the Local Government and Rural Development Committee.
Constituency Needs and Legislative Action:
Identifying critical needs within her constituency, Honourable Catherine Zainab Tarawally has prioritized initiatives aimed at addressing infrastructure challenges, including drainage and road construction, ensuring access to essential services such as clean water and electricity, and advocating for improved healthcare facilities, especially for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and children. Her tenure has been marked by tireless efforts to enact legislation and provide oversight for effectively delivering services to her constituents and the broader Sierra Leonean populace.
Championing Gender Equality:
As a staunch advocate for gender equality, Honourable Catherine Zainab Tarawally has played a pivotal role in advancing women’s rights and empowerment. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Gender Committee, where she has been instrumental in championing initiatives; such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act 2022, paving the way for significant strides in gender parity and inclusivity.
Contact Information:
Honorable Catherine Zainab Tarawally remains accessible to her constituents and stakeholders, welcoming engagement and collaboration in advancing the collective welfare of Sierra Leone. She can be reached via femalempsdiary@gmail.com
Honourable Catherine Zainab Tarawally’s exemplary leadership, unwavering dedication to accountability, and tireless advocacy for the empowerment of women and marginalized groups, underscore her profound commitment to serving her constituents and advancing the socio-economic development of Sierra Leone.