By Tony Morgan
As the world prepared to observe the inaugural November 18 World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence, calls were intensifying for Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, to be awarded the prestigious title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in King Charles III’s 2026 New Year Honours List.
Advocates say the proposed honour is not a matter of courtesy, but a recognition of the First Lady’s extraordinary global impact and her unmatched leadership in the fight against child sexual exploitation and gender-based violence.
On 18 November 2022, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio achieved a groundbreaking milestone at the United Nations General Assembly when she authored and introduced Resolution A/RES/77/18, leading to the establishment of November 18 as the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence.
The resolution, reaffirmed in 2024 as A/RES/79/138, marked the first time in history that an African First Lady initiated and secured a dedicated global UN observance. Today, 193 nations commemorate the day annually, making it a permanent international instrument for the protection of children and survivors worldwide.
Observers say this singular achievement alone represents the “exceptional service of the highest order” traditionally associated with DBE recipients.
Beyond the international stage, Dr. Fatima Bio has helped shape a new era of child protection and gender justice in Sierra Leone and across the continent.
Key milestones include:
- Hands Off Our Girls (2018): A nationwide campaign that helped influence a National Emergency on Rape and Sexual Violence, strengthened legal protections and empowered thousands of girls.
- UN Education Plus Champion (2021): Advocacy that expanded access to dignity kits, protection and education support for vulnerable schoolgirls.
- Landmark National Child Marriage Ban (2024): A policy shift hailed by UNICEF as “Africa’s gold standard” in safeguarding girls’ rights.
- Leadership in OAFLAD: As President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development, she unified 54 African First Ladies in coordinated action against gender-based violence.
Her work has earned her global accolades including the AEMA Black Prize (2025), GAB Global Icon Award and honorary doctorates; yet supporters argue that none match the symbolic and imperial stature of the DBE.
The UK’s DBE honour recognizes individuals who have demonstrated sustained, monumental service with global reach. Advocates say Dr. Fatima Bio exemplifies:
- Global policy influence — drafting a UN resolution now upheld by all member states.
- Transformational personal leadership — converting lived trauma into a global movement of healing.
- Commonwealth relevance — projecting Sierra Leone as a global leader in child protection and ethical governance.
They contend that her impact not only rivals but surpasses that of past DBE recipients whose work reshaped society in sports, arts, public service and global advocacy.
As November 18 continues to inspire global reflection and action, campaigners argue that Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s achievements have elevated her to a distinguished class of world leaders whose contributions merit imperial recognition.
Supporters insist that granting her the title of Dame Commander in 2026 would be a fitting tribute to a woman whose advocacy has protected millions of children and reignited worldwide conversations on justice, healing and survivor dignity.
They envision the moment when she stands at Windsor, honoured not only as Sierra Leone’s First Lady, but as a global guardian of vulnerable children and a moral force across the Commonwealth.
Tony Morgan is the Head of Strategy and Communication in the Office of the First Lady of Sierra Leone.
