First Lady Fatima Bio Showcases Hands Off Our Girls at Global First Partners Academy

Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Bio, addressed delegates at the 4th Annual Global First Partners Academy 2026 today, highlighting how advocacy can be translated into national policy through leadership, partnerships, and sustained reform.

Speaking to an audience of First Ladies and Gentlemen from around the world, she shared the journey of Sierra Leone’s Hands Off Our Girls campaign. Her presentation focused on the lessons the initiative offers for advancing national programmes in complex environments.

She outlined how the campaign evolved from advocacy into law and institutional change. Key themes included building broad coalitions, navigating political and social challenges, leveraging the platform of a First Partner, and maintaining an “unwavering commitment to reform.”