By Mackie M. Jalloh
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has described the inauguration of a female Chiefdom Speaker in Moyamba District as a historic milestone for women’s leadership and traditional governance in the country, reaffirming her long-standing commitment to promoting women’s participation in decision-making at all levels of society.
The First Lady made the remarks on Tuesday while serving as the keynote speaker at the inauguration ceremony of Elsie, affectionately known as Aunty Elsie, who was officially installed as Chiefdom Speaker in Senehun Town, Kamajei Chiefdom. The colourful ceremony attracted traditional authorities, elders, women’s groups, youth leaders, and community members from across the district, all gathered to witness what many described as a breakthrough moment in local governance.
Speaking after the ceremony, Dr. Bio explained that her presence went beyond protocol or symbolism. She said she attended the event not merely to witness the installation of a woman into a traditionally male-dominated position, but to honour a woman whose character, dedication, and service have earned her the trust of her people.
“I was not here simply to witness the crowning of a woman as Chiefdom Speaker,” the First Lady said. “I was here because Aunty Elsie has always been a supportive, dependable, and committed woman who has stood by her community.”
Dr. Bio praised the Paramount Chief of Kamajei Chiefdom, PC Sovula, for what she described as a bold and progressive decision to appoint a woman to one of the most influential traditional roles in the chiefdom. The position of Chiefdom Speaker plays a central role in governance, communication, and the administration of customary affairs, making the appointment particularly significant.
“To PC Sovula, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for choosing a woman to serve in this important position,” she said. “I honour you as a leader who truly believes in women’s empowerment and inclusive leadership. Thank you sincerely for setting this example.”
The First Lady described the inauguration as both “beautiful and historic,” noting that it was personally meaningful for her to witness such a moment in Sierra Leone’s traditional leadership landscape. She emphasized that moments like these reflect gradual but important shifts toward gender balance and recognition of women’s capabilities in leadership.
“To my dear Aunty Elsie, my mother, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to witness this beautiful and historic inauguration,” Dr. Bio stated, acknowledging the emotional and cultural significance of the event.
Reiterating her advocacy for women’s leadership, the First Lady stressed that women bring purpose, discipline, and integrity to governance when given the opportunity to lead. She described women’s leadership not as a favour, but as a necessity for effective and inclusive development.
“When women are in leadership, things are done properly and with purpose,” she said, drawing applause from the audience. According to her, empowering women at the community level strengthens families, improves accountability, and promotes sustainable development.
Dr. Bio offered prayers and words of encouragement to the newly inaugurated Chiefdom Speaker as she begins her tenure. She called on God to grant Aunty Elsie wisdom, strength, good health, and long life, urging her to serve with humility and dedication to the people of Kamajei Chiefdom.
“Aunty Elsie, may God bless you again, grant you long life, and strengthen you to continue serving your chiefdom diligently,” the First Lady said.
She also expressed appreciation to community members, traditional leaders, and invited guests who attended the ceremony to show support and solidarity. According to her, their presence demonstrated unity and collective commitment to progress and inclusion within the chiefdom.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Bio extended warm New Year greetings to the people of Moyamba District and the country at large. She wished for peace, blessings, and prosperity in the coming year, expressing hope that 2026 would bring divine favour and continued progress for all Sierra Leoneans.
“I wish you all a Happy New Year,” she said, “and may 2026 be Alhamdulillah for us all.”
The inauguration of Aunty Elsie as Chiefdom Speaker stands as a powerful symbol of changing attitudes toward women’s leadership in traditional institutions, a development the First Lady described as both necessary and long overdue.
