Sierra Leone has been elected to lead the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). This significant milestone was achieved at the 29th OAFLAD General Assembly, held during the ongoing African Union (AU) General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The Organisation of African First Ladies for Development, created by Maryam Abacha in Nigeria, has long been a platform to promote women’s empowerment, healthcare, and education across Africa. Since its inception, several African countries have held the prestigious position of leadership. However, Sierra Leone had never occupied this position until now.
Dr. Fatima Bio’s election as the President of OAFLAD is a testament to her dedication and impactful initiatives, most notably her “Hands off Our Girls” campaign. This program has made significant strides in promoting girls’ education and advocating for the rights and protection of young girls across Africa.
The announcement of Dr. Bio’s election has been met with widespread acclaim. Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, who recently visited Sierra Leone, praised Dr. Bio for her unwavering commitment to girls’ education and her efforts in creating sustainable employment opportunities for women in both the public and private sectors.
Dr. Fatima Bio’s leadership is expected to bring renewed energy and focus to OAFLAD’s mission, further advancing the cause of women’s empowerment and development across the continent.