H. E. Fatima Maada Bio

Eid Mubarak, Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 As we mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan, I extend my warmest wishes to all Muslims across our beloved nation. May this blessed Eid bring peace, joy, and renewed faith into every home. Let us carry forward the values of compassion, sacrifice, and unity that Ramadan has taught us. In a time when our country continues to grow and heal, may we stand together as one people, united in purpose and love for Sierra Leone. May Allah (SWT) accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds, and bless our nation with peace, prosperity, and continued harmony. Eid Mubarak to you all.

Honoring the trailblazers who paved the way, the game changers who shook things up, and the everyday heroes who show up with courage and kindness every single day. Your strength, resilience, and compassion inspire us all. Happy Women's Day to the women who make a difference in our lives and in the world. FMB.

It was truly an honor meeting Karen Bass, the 43rd and current Mayor of Los Angeles. Since taking office on December 12, 2022, she has continued to demonstrate what purposeful leadership and public service look like. As a Democrat and former U.S. Representative, Mayor Bass made history as the first woman and the second Black person to lead this great city. Our meeting was a powerful reminder of why women supporting women in this millennium is not only important, but necessary. Around the world, women continue to break barriers in spaces that were historically closed to them, particularly in politics and leadership. When women stand together, we amplify each other’s voices, strengthen our impact, and create pathways for the next generation of girls to believe that leadership is possible for them too. Despite serving on two different continents, we share many common values as women and as leaders in public life. We both understand the responsibility that comes with representing people whose hopes, struggles, and aspirations depend on thoughtful and compassionate leadership. We know that leadership is not simply about holding office, but about advocating for those whose voices are often unheard—especially women, children, and marginalized communities. As women in politics, we also share the experience of navigating spaces that have often been shaped by male-dominated traditions. This reality requires resilience, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to uplift others as we rise. Supporting one another allows us to challenge stereotypes, reshape leadership narratives, and prove that women can lead with strength, empathy, and vision. Across continents—from Africa to North America—our shared commitment to advancing the well-being of women and girls unites us. Whether it is advocating for better healthcare, expanding educational opportunities, promoting social justice, or protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls, our missions intersect in powerful ways. In this era of global connection, women leaders must continue building bridges, learning from one another, and standing in solidarity. When women support women, we do more than celebrate each other—we strengthen a global movement that ensures the next generation of girls will inherit a world where their leadership is not questioned, but expected. FMB

I’m pleased to share that I will be appearing live on CNN on The Lead with Jake Tapper, hosted by Jake Tapper, where I will be speaking about my continued global advocacy to end child marriage and promote the protection and education of girls. Following my recent engagement at the Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs in New York City, I look forward to further amplifying the voice of Sierra Leone and strengthening our collective commitment to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive free from child marriage, on such a global platform. FMB

Yesterday, on the 4th of March 2026, I had the privilege of leading the conversation on 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐚 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐬 (𝐒𝐈𝐏𝐀) during the event “𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐞,” 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞. During the event, I had the honour of meeting and sharing the stage with 𝐇𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐑𝐨𝐝𝐡𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐠𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐥 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐠, 𝐌𝐚𝐛𝐞𝐥 𝐯𝐚𝐧 𝐎𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐣𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐥, all united in advancing efforts to protect girls and end child marriage worldwide. The discussion reinforced the urgent need for global collaboration, stronger policies, and sustained investment in girls’ education and protection. Together, we reaffirmed our shared commitment to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive free from child marriage. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone & President of OAFLAD

I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to be included in this important global conversation on accelerating efforts to end child marriage. To stand alongside distinguished leaders committed to protecting the rights and dignity of girls worldwide is both humbling and affirming. Ending child marriage is not simply a policy priority for me; it is a personal mission rooted in my life’s journey. I have witnessed firsthand how early marriage robs girls of their education, their health, their dreams, and their voice. It perpetuates cycles of poverty, inequality, and vulnerability that affect not only individual girls but entire nations. I chose this path because I believe that every girl deserves the right to childhood, the right to education, and the right to determine her own future. When we protect girls, we strengthen families, communities, and economies. When we invest in girls, we invest in sustainable development and lasting peace. This work is more than advocacy; it is a moral obligation. And I remain committed to using my voice and platform to ensure that no girl is forced into marriage before she is ready to live her full potential. FMB.

Today, 2nd March 2026, I was honoured to attend the 10113th Meeting of the United Nations Security Council, convened under the agenda of maintaining international peace and security, with a focused discussion on Children, Technology, and Education in Conflict. In my capacity as First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone and President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), I joined global leaders in raising urgent concerns about the millions of children whose education has been disrupted by war, instability, and climate-related crises. I was officially invited by the First Lady of the United States, Her Excellency Melania Trump, who currently serves as President of the Security Council as the United States begins its one-month presidency. I deeply appreciate her leadership in elevating the critical issue of children in conflict to the forefront of global security discussions. This meeting speaks directly to the heart of my flagship initiative at OAFLAD — Building Resilience for Women and Children in the Face of War and Climate Change. Across Africa and beyond, children in conflict zones face unimaginable barriers to learning, safety, and opportunity. We must act decisively and collectively. I reaffirmed my unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that every child — especially the girl child — has access to safe, inclusive, and quality education, regardless of circumstance. Our deliberations highlighted the transformative power of technology in expanding educational access for displaced and conflict-affected children. At the same time, we addressed the grave risks associated with digital exposure in fragile settings, including online exploitation, trafficking, and abuse. Technology must empower and protect — never endanger. #ChildrenInConflict #EducationForAll #BuildingResilience #OAFLAD #WomenAndGirls #GlobalLeadership FMB

Yesterday, the JMB Wing, on behalf of my husband and myself, undertook the annual distribution of Ramadan food packages to mosques across Kenema District—an enduring tradition that reflects our shared compassion, solidarity, and responsibility toward the Muslim Jamaat during this sacred month. This initiative goes beyond charity; it is a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to interfaith harmony, mutual respect, and collective support for our brothers and sisters as they observe the Holy Month of Ramadan in devotion, sacrifice, and prayer. In moments like these, we are reminded that the strength of our nation lies in our unity, our empathy, and our willingness to stand together in faith and fellowship. As a country blessed with religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, we must continue to nurture the bonds that connect us across communities. It is in this spirit of togetherness that we extend our prayers for renewed peace, deeper understanding, and spiritual upliftment for every family observing this holy season. May this Ramadan bring healing to our land, strengthen our national cohesion, and inspire us all to serve one another with humility and compassion under the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio and through our continued humanitarian advocacy for the wellbeing of all Sierra Leoneans. FMB

Yesterday, the JMB Members, representing my husband and myself, distributed Ramadan food items to mosques across Kailahun District — a cherished tradition we faithfully uphold each year in solidarity with our Muslim community. Ramadan is a sacred season of sacrifice, reflection, generosity, and compassion. Through this humble gesture, we reaffirm our commitment to standing with our brothers and sisters as they observe the Holy Month, ensuring that families are supported and that the spirit of sharing remains alive in our communities. This initiative reflects our unwavering dedication to interfaith harmony, national unity, and service to humanity. In Sierra Leone, our diversity is our strength, and it is through mutual respect and collective responsibility that we continue to build a nation rooted in love and understanding. As our Muslim community fasts and prays, may this blessed month bring renewed peace, deeper faith, and spiritual growth to every home. May Allah accept our prayers, strengthen our bonds as one people, and guide Sierra Leone toward continued unity and prosperity. FMB

Yesterday, I joined our revered military personnel, who have valiantly safeguarded our nation's peace and democracy, for a grand dinner in commemoration of Armed Forces Day held at Julius Maada Bio Parade Square, Wilberforce Barracks, Freeton. The evening was a resounding success, marked by delightful culinary experiences and profound reflections on the progress made in upholding peace and security. We took a moment to reminisce about our past, recalling the tumultuous period of war, and celebrated the significant strides we have made as a nation. This serves as a testament to the invaluable nature of peace, an asset we must cherish and protect. It is only through stability that we can truly thrive. I wish to extend my heartfelt salute to the personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces for their resolute commitment to maintaining peace and democracy, often putting their lives at risk. To those who made the ultimate sacrifice, may their souls rest in peace; they are our heroes, and their legacy will forever be honoured. FMB.

As the blessed month of Ramadan begins, we enter a sacred season of reflection, restraint, and renewal. This is the month where hearts soften, prayers rise higher, and mercy flows more abundantly. It is a time when we are reminded that true strength is not in power or position — but in patience, humility, and forgiveness. Ramadan calls us back to what truly matters: unity over division, peace over conflict, and love over hatred. Let us use this holy month to cleanse not only our bodies through fasting, but our hearts from anger, pride, and resentment. Let us speak gently, act justly, and extend compassion to every corner of our nation. May Allah forgive our shortcomings, heal our land, guide our leaders, and protect our children. May He unite us beyond tribe, politics, and differences, and make Sierra Leone a beacon of peace and righteousness. This Ramadan, let us pray not only for ourselves — but for our country. May peace fill our homes, wisdom guide our decisions, and unity define our future. Ramadan Mubarak, Sierra Leone. May Allah bless us all. Ameen. FMB

According to the African Development Bank and World Bank, closing gender gaps in labor participation and entrepreneurship significantly boosts GDP. When women are empowered equitably: •Household income rises •Children’s education improves •Community health outcomes improve •National productivity increases Equity is not charity — it is economic strategy.

Today, I had the distinct honour of welcoming my sisters to the 30th Ordinary General Assembly of OAFLAD, marking thirty years of unity and collective impact across Africa. As President of OAFLAD, I proudly presented certificates to our new sisters who are joining our family, including our First Gentleman of Namibia. In my remarks, I reflected on my experiences as First Lady of Sierra Leone and emphasised how simple but strategic interventions—particularly in maternal healthcare and the protection of women and girls—can transform lives and restore hope in our communities. I reaffirmed that development must remain people-centred, with women and children at the heart of our agenda. While acknowledging the progress we have made over the past three decades, I also underscored that our work is far from complete. I called for renewed unity, bold leadership, and decisive action to address persistent challenges such as poverty, inequality, and emerging social issues. I concluded by encouraging my sisters to remain steadfast in our shared mission to build a stronger, inclusive, and prosperous Africa for future generations. FMB.

This evening, I joined my sisters first ladies from Angola and Kenya, the second lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the first gentleman of Namibia at the AUDA-NEPAD high-level networking session with a deep sense of purpose. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to strengthen collaboration between OAFLAD and AUDA-NEPAD for the realisation of Agenda 2063. Throughout my journey, I have witnessed how access to education, reproductive health services, and quality maternal care can completely redirect the life of a young girl. I have heard painful stories, but I have also seen remarkable restoration and resilience. Our partnership is both timely and necessary as we advance economic empowerment through creativity, sports, and innovation. I strongly believe that supporting local industries and nurturing youth talent creates dignity, opportunity, and hope. Together, we can shape an inclusive and resilient Africa that fully unlocks the potential of its women and young people. FMB.

Today, as President of OAFLAD, I chaired the Closed Session of the 30th OAFLAD General Assembly here in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was a moment of reflection and responsibility for me. I focused on strengthening our institution so we can serve women and girls better. I reminded my sisters that our leadership must always create real impact. I spoke from the heart about the women and girls I have met across Sierra Leone and Africa. Their strength and resilience continue to inspire me deeply. They are the reason our work must remain urgent and focused. Empowering them is not optional—it is our duty. I assured the Assembly that the recommendations before us were carefully reviewed. Adopting them will make our organisation stronger and more credible. Strong institutions require unity and discipline. I closed by urging us to remain united for the women and girls who depend on us. As the President of OAFLAD, from the bottom of my heart, I officially welcome our new sisters. FMB.

Today, I had the honour of officially chairing my first Steering Committee Meeting as President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development. During this important engagement, I outlined my strategic agenda for 2025–2027, grounded in our collective responsibility to advance sustainable development and strengthen the resilience of women and girls across our continent. I called on my dear sister First Ladies to actively champion the Building Resilient Communities Campaign — an initiative focused on empowering women and girls with knowledge, tools, and practical solutions to confront the realities of climate change and global warming. Climate resilience is no longer optional; it is essential to safeguarding livelihoods, health systems, food security, and the future of our children. I further encouraged my sister First Ladies to continue prioritising national development by strengthening investments in health, education, and women’s empowerment — the three pillars that remain central to Africa’s transformation. Together, we must lead with purpose, solidarity, and bold action to ensure that no woman or girl is left behind. FMB.

Today, at the High-Level Side Event on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Summit on Digital Health Technologies for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health in Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, I stand as President of OAFLAD and as a mother who believes that the health of a nation begins with the health of its women. This gathering reminds us that our policies must reflect the realities of African mothers and children. I remain committed to advancing digital and data-driven systems that protect our mothers and children. From identifying risks early to improving access to essential services, technology can transform healthcare delivery across Africa when guided by compassion and accountability. I stand firm in ensuring that no woman, child, or adolescent is left invisible in Africa’s health transformation. Through OAFLAD, I will continue to champion policies and partnerships that place women and young people at the centre of our development agenda. FMB.

Today, at the Side Event of OAFLAD in Addis Ababa, I had the honour of delivering a keynote address in my capacity as First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone and President of OAFLAD, focusing on advancing women’s health within primary health care systems across Africa. I sincerely thanked my dear sister, Dr. Fatou, for her visionary leadership, this important initiative, and the gracious invitation to share in this critical conversation. Moments like these remind us that when African women leaders come together, we do not just discuss change — we drive it. In my address, I reaffirmed the urgent need for our health systems to fully recognise and respond to the lived realities of African women and girls. Too often, uterine and hormonal health remain overlooked in national policies, despite their profound impact on education, economic participation, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Integrating uterine and hormonal health into national primary health care frameworks is not optional — it is essential. It is fundamental to achieving Universal Health Coverage and to advancing true gender equality on our continent. Africa must generate its own evidence, invest in research that reflects our realities, strengthen community-level screening, and lead with homegrown solutions that protect the dignity, health, and future of every woman and girl. Our women deserve systems that see them, hear them, and serve them fully. FMB.

I arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to participate in the 30th General Assembly of Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), in my capacity as President of OAFLAD and First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone. This important gathering brings together First Ladies from across our great continent to deepen our collective commitment to advancing the health, education, and empowerment of women, children, and vulnerable communities. Through strategic dialogue, shared experiences, and coordinated action, we continue to strengthen Africa’s response to the challenges that affect our people most. My presence here in Addis Ababa reflects a renewed determination to champion sustainable development, amplify Africa’s voice on the global stage, and promote transformative leadership rooted in compassion, accountability, and service. As President of OAFLAD, I remain steadfast in ensuring that our platform delivers measurable impact—especially in areas of girls’ education, reproductive health, gender equality, and youth empowerment. Together, we will continue to build resilient communities and create opportunities that allow African women and girls to thrive. FMB.