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First Lady Fatima Maada Bio Returns Safely to Sierra Leone After UK Visit
Freetown, Sierra Leone Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has landed safely in Freetown following a successful journey from the United Kingdom. FMB shared the news with gratitude, saying “Alhamdulillah” upon her arrival, confirming her safe return. Facebook+1
According to official and social media announcements, the First Lady and her entourage arrived via Freetown International Airport shortly after their UK trip. Facebook+1 The UK visit reportedly involved meetings, engagements, or events in line with her roles in advocacy, public diplomacy, and development work. (Details of her schedule during the stay have not been fully published as of this writing.)
Her safe return carries significance for many in Sierra Leone, who view her activities abroad as not just diplomatic but also central to her ongoing campaigns — particularly around women’s empowerment, human capital development, girls’ education, and social welfare. FMB’s messages often generate interest because of her public roles, including leadership in national and pan-African initiatives.
What This Means:
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The First Lady will likely resume her national and advocacy priorities with renewed momentum following her international engagements.
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Stakeholders and followers may expect updates about what was achieved during the UK trip, including possible partnerships or initiatives announced or started there.
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Her return is a public reassurance of continuity in her advocacy work and international representation of Sierra Leone.
Source Credit:
Information collected from First Lady Fatima Maada Bio’s social media posts and related announcements on Facebook by “Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone” and related Sierra Leonean public pages. Published recently (as of this week). Facebook+1
Fatima Maada Bio to Speak at AEGC 2025 in New York During UNGA80
New York, USA Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has been confirmed as a featured speaker at the African Economic Global Convergence (AEGC) Summit 2025, which will take place September 21–22, 2025, alongside the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York City. Sierraloaded
The AEGC Summit is a prominent forum for African and international leaders to engage on the continent’s economic agenda. This year’s summit will focus on core issues such as trade, industrialization, innovation, sustainable financing, and ensuring inclusive growth. Sierraloaded
Dr. Bio’s participation is particularly noted for her advocacy and experience in human capital development and women’s leadership. She is internationally known for her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign and her leadership role with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), efforts that spotlight the protection, empowerment, and advancement of girls and women. Sierraloaded
Her appearance at AEGC also underscores Sierra Leone’s growing diplomatic engagement under President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, sending a message that the nation is committed to policies that leave no one behind. Sierraloaded
Key expectations from her address include:
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Emphasis on women’s economic empowerment as essential for national development.
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Call for investment in education, skills training, and human capital to strengthen workforce competitiveness.
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Stress on inclusive governance and policies that ensure marginalized groups benefit.
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Advocacy for partnerships between Africa and global actors in innovation, digital development, and trade expansion.
What This Means:
Dr. Bio’s presence at AEGC 2025 adds momentum to a narrative where Africa is not just a subject of global economic policy but a shaper of it. For Sierra Leone, it reinforces its image as an active participant in international development discussions. For women and youth across Africa, her role serves as a model of leadership and inclusion in high-level global forums.
The Africa Report Spotlights Fatima Maada Bio as Trailblazer in Leadership and Gender Equity
The July 2025 edition of The Africa Report shines a spotlight on Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, recognizing her as a trailblazer redefining African leadership through her relentless drive for gender equity and grassroots transformation.
From her acclaimed campaign Hands Off Our Girls to legislative impact, Dr. Bio has driven forward meaningful change in Sierra Leone and beyond. Her advocacy has contributed to the enactment of the landmark Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act 2022, which mandates at least 30% representation for women across government and institutional roles. Simultaneously, she championed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024, setting a firm legal foundation to protect girls’ rights. slmissionun.gov.sl
The report also highlights Dr. Bio’s dynamic leadership across African platforms, particularly her presidency of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). Serving since early 2025, she has used this platform to advocate for climate action, peacebuilding, and human security—key priorities in the continental Sustainable Development Goals drive. sierraleonemonitor.comSierraloaded
Her broader impact extends to healthcare and social development, too. As featured in her UN and humanitarian work, she led renovations at Sierra Leone’s Military Hospital into a Centre of Excellence for SGBV survivors and championed women’s healthcare initiatives including vaccination drives and support for underserved communities. UN-Habitatsierraleonemonitor.com
Fatima Maada Bio Champions Women and Girls as Catalysts for Sustainable Development
Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone and newly elected President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), continues to be a formidable advocate for women’s and girls’ rights across Africa. Her leadership underscores a commitment to transforming challenges into opportunities for sustainable development.gavi.org+6Sierra Leone State House Sierra Leone+6nawmagazine.com+6
At the 29th General Assembly of the African Union Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Dr. Bio was elected President of OAFLAD, defeating Her Excellency Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of Nigeria. Her Excellency Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, First Lady of Angola, was elected Vice President. President Julius Maada Bio lauded his wife’s election as a testament to her unwavering dedication to championing the rights and empowerment of women and girls. Wikipedia+3Sierra Leone State House Sierra Leone+3Sierra Leone State House Sierra Leone+3
Dr. Bio’s flagship initiative, the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, launched in 2018, has been instrumental in addressing issues such as sexual violence and child marriage in Sierra Leone. The campaign’s impact was highlighted in a Q&A with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where Dr. Bio emphasized the importance of empowering girls and women to shape Africa’s future. X (formerly Twitter)+6Harvard Chan School of Public Health+6Harvard Public Health Magazine+6
In addition to her advocacy work, Dr. Bio has been a vocal proponent for gender equality legislation in Sierra Leone. In January 2023, President Julius Maada Bio signed a landmark bill into law mandating that women constitute 30% of the workforce and government positions. The legislation also includes provisions for 14 weeks of paid maternity leave and ensures equal access to credit and financial services for women. Women found guilty of gender discrimination could face up to five years in prison and fines. Sierra Leone State House Sierra Leone+3AP News+3Wikipedia+3
Dr. Bio’s election as OAFLAD President marks a significant milestone in her ongoing efforts to empower women and girls across Africa. Her leadership is poised to further amplify the voices of women and girls, turning challenges into opportunities for a sustainable future.nawmagazine.com+4Sierra Leone State House Sierra Leone+4firstlady.gov.sl+4
First Lady Fatima Bio Welcomes Amara Jambai Kanneh After SLPP Chairmanship Election
Today, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, welcomed Engineer Amara Jambai Kanneh and his team in a courtesy visit. Mr. Kanneh recently contested for the position of SLPP National Chairman.
During their discussion, the First Lady commended his respect, unity, and commitment throughout the election process. She stressed the need for internal democracy, discipline, and service within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), noting that these values are vital for strengthening both the party and the nation.
Dr. Fatima Bio encouraged Mr. Kanneh and his supporters to remain active, united, and dedicated to the SLPP’s shared vision. She emphasized that the strength of the party lies in how well members work together after every election, highlighting unity as the foundation for building a stronger Sierra Leone.
Sierra Leone First Lady Fatima Bio Meets Amara Jambai Kanneh After SLPP Chairmanship Election
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has extended a warm welcome to Engineer Amara Jambai Kanneh and his team after his recent contest for the position of SLPP National Chairman.
The courtesy visit, held at the First Lady’s office, was described as a gesture of mutual respect and maturity within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). In her remarks, Fatima Maada Bio praised Kanneh’s decision to visit and used the opportunity to remind party supporters that “election is not war.”
She stressed that democracy thrives on peace, tolerance, and respect for outcomes, encouraging members of the SLPP to remain united despite internal leadership contests.
The meeting has been seen as a strong sign of reconciliation within the party, with the First Lady playing a unifying role in bridging divides. Beyond the SLPP, the event carries a broader message of political harmony and the need for leaders in Sierra Leone to prioritize peace and national interest above rivalry.
First Lady of Sierra Leone Meets UN Women Team
Yesterday, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio of Sierra Leone welcomed Madam Setcheme Jeronine Mongbo, Head of the UN Women Sierra Leone Office, and her team to her official workplace. The meeting focused on fortifying collaboration between the Office of the First Lady and UN Women to advance women’s empowerment and gender equality initiatives. X (formerly Twitter)
Madam Bio Acknowledges Her OAFLAD Election
During the visit, the First Lady expressed heartfelt appreciation for Madam Mongbo’s warm congratulations on her recent election as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). This leadership position places Madam Bio at the forefront of continent-wide advocacy on issues like maternal health, gender-based violence, and economic empowerment. Sierra Leone State House Sierra LeoneAfrican Union
Shared Vision: Gender Equality and Development
Both leaders reiterated their commitment to expanding impactful initiatives and fostering systemic change. Their cooperation is expected to amplify OAFLAD’s 2025–2030 Strategic Framework, which emphasizes health, education, GBV prevention, and women’s economic empowerment across Africa. Sierra Leone’s collaboration with UN Women under Madam Bio’s stewardship is poised to bring transformative outcomes at both national and regional levels.
How First Lady Fatima Maada Bio is Transforming Lives: The Inspiring Journey of Women and Youth Empowerment in Sierra Leone!
First Lady Fatima Maada Bio: A Champion for Women and Youth Empowerment in Sierra Leone
Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 2024
In a series of impactful events this October, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio has been actively championing women’s rights and youth empowerment across Sierra Leone. Her dedication to improving the lives of women and children in the country has been evident through her involvement in various initiatives aimed at fostering education, health, and economic opportunities.
One of the highlights of her recent activities was her participation in the Black History Month celebration in Milton Keynes, London, where she served as the Special Guest of Honour. The event, centered on *”Reclaiming Narratives,”* was a platform to launch the book *”Twenty-One African Queens Every Young Girl Should Know About,”* organized by World Media Initiatives CIC. First Lady Bio’s presence underscored her commitment to celebrating African heritage and empowering young girls by highlighting the achievements of African women.
During her keynote address, she passionately spoke about the importance of reclaiming African narratives, particularly in celebrating the roles of women throughout history. “Celebrating our history is not just about honoring the past but about reclaiming our narratives for the future,” she stated, inspiring attendees to recognize the strength and resilience of their heritage. Her remarks emphasized the need for events like these to empower the younger generation, showcasing the influential figures that should serve as role models.
Back in Sierra Leone, First Lady Bio continued her advocacy for education by visiting local schools to promote her *”Educate a Girl, Change the World”* initiative. She met with students and teachers, encouraging them to prioritize education as a means to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their dreams. Her hands-on approach, coupled with her heartfelt interactions, resonated deeply with the young people, motivating them to aspire for greatness.
In addition to her educational initiatives, the First Lady has been a vocal advocate for health and wellness, particularly focusing on maternal and child health. She has collaborated with various NGOs to improve healthcare access in rural communities, ensuring that women receive the necessary support during pregnancy and childbirth. Her efforts to raise awareness about health issues have garnered significant attention, highlighting the importance of women’s health in national development.
First Lady Fatima Maada Bio’s multifaceted approach to leadership—rooted in empowerment, education, and health—has positioned her as a pivotal figure in Sierra Leone’s ongoing development. Her commitment to uplifting women and youth not only sets a powerful example but also encourages a collective effort toward a brighter future for all Sierra Leoneans. As she continues to champion these causes, her influence and dedication remain a beacon of hope for many across the nation.
President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio Depart for 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum in Beijing
His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, along with his wife, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has departed from Freetown International Airport to attend the 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. The summit, scheduled to take place from September 4th to 6th, 2024, is a significant event that will bring together leaders from across Africa and China to discuss and strengthen their partnership.
President Bio’s participation in the FOCAC Summit highlights Sierra Leone’s commitment to fostering strong diplomatic and economic ties with China, a key global player and a major partner in Africa’s development journey. The summit is expected to address critical issues such as trade, investment, infrastructure development, and sustainable growth, offering a platform for African nations to voice their needs and priorities.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, known for her active engagement in humanitarian and social causes, will accompany the President, representing Sierra Leone on the international stage and showcasing the nation’s dynamic leadership.
This year’s FOCAC Summit comes at a crucial time as Africa seeks to recover and rebuild in the post-pandemic era, with an emphasis on innovation, digital transformation, and strengthening resilience against global challenges. The summit promises to be a pivotal moment for redefining China-Africa relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
Stay tuned to AfrinityTv for updates on the summit and the latest from Sierra Leone’s delegation in Beijing!
Sierra Leone’s First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio Meets with Korean Red Cross Leaders
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, Sierra Leone’s First Lady, had a pivotal meeting with the President and Vice President of the Korean National Red Cross. The discussion aimed to enhance the partnership between the Korean Red Cross and the Office of the First Lady of Sierra Leone, focusing on sanitation and health initiatives, especially for women and girls.
The President of the Korean Red Cross praised Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for her exceptional work in promoting sanitation and health for women and girls in Sierra Leone. He acknowledged her dedicated efforts and impactful programs that have greatly improved the lives of many women and girls across the country.
During the bilateral meeting, Her Excellency advocated for continued support from the Korean Red Cross, stressing the urgent need to improve sanitation facilities and health services for women and girls in Sierra Leone. Dr. Bio expressed gratitude for the existing support and highlighted the positive impact of the Korean Red Cross’s contributions on Sierra Leonean communities.
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio shared her vision for the future, aiming to build on current successes and further strengthen the collaboration between the two organizations. She emphasized the importance of sustained efforts and international partnerships to tackle critical issues in sanitation and health, essential for the empowerment and well-being of women and girls.
The meeting concluded with the Korean National Red Cross reaffirming its commitment to supporting the initiatives of the Office of the First Lady of Sierra Leone. Both parties agreed on the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation to ensure the effective implementation of projects that will benefit the people of Sierra Leone.
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Office Of The First Lady,
Republic Of Sierra Leone.
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