Madam I. J Kabba Pleads Clemency For Zainab Sheriff
By Marian Magdalene Bangura
Strategic Communication Unit – MOICE
The Government of Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and advancing women’s empowerment, as the Presidential Adviser on Gender Affairs, Madam Isatu Jabbie Kabba, outlined progress and ongoing challenges at the weekly government press conference on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
She provided updates on the country’s efforts in promoting gender equality and addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Madam Kabba highlighted significant strides made under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, particularly between 2018 and 2023, and noted increased investments in girls’ education, strengthening of legal frameworks such as the Sexual Offences Act, and enhancing support for girls pursuing STEM – now expanded to STEAM, as key milestones.
She further emphasized progress in women’s political participation, revealing that female representation in Parliament has significantly increased, with about 41 women currently serving. She also pointed to the growing number of women appointed to cabinet positions, including ministers and deputies, as evidence of the government’s commitment to achieving the 30 percent quota for women’s representation, in line with recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
Madam Kabba noted that these gains are the result of sustained advocacy by women’s groups and deliberate government action, including the establishment of the Presidential Task Force on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. She stressed that while progress has been made, SGBV remains a critical national concern.
“SGBV is not only perpetrated by strangers,” she stated. “In many cases, the perpetrators are people within our communities—family members, teachers, and even religious leaders.” She warned that the impact of such abuse is often long-lasting, affecting victims’ confidence, education, and future opportunities.
She underscored the importance of community involvement in addressing the issue, calling on citizens to take responsibility by reporting cases and supporting victims. She also highlighted improvements in response systems, noting that collaboration between authorities, civil society, and the use of social media has enhanced the speed and visibility of interventions.
Addressing the issue of women in conflict with the law, Madam Kabba referenced the ongoing case involving Zainab Sheriff, condemning her actions which she described as unfortunate while also advocating for compassion.
“Everybody has the right to speak, but it must be done responsibly,” she said, cautioning against statements that could incite unrest, particularly given Sierra Leone’s history of civil conflict. Drawing from her experiences during the country’s 11-year-old civil war, emphasizing the need for responsible public discourse.
At the same time, she called on government and the judiciary to temper justice with mercy, describing the individual involved as a young and aspiring politician, who still has much to learn.
In conclusion, Madam Kabba reiterated that while Sierra Leone has made notable progress in advancing gender equality and empowering women, the fight against Gender-Based Violence is far from over. She called for sustained national efforts through continuous awareness, stronger community engagement, and collective accountability.
The government, she affirmed, remains committed to building a society where women and girls are protected, empowered, and given equal opportunities to thrive.