Functions

The functions and activities of female MPs are further detailed in the Parliament Act, 2023, The Revised Standing Orders, 2006 and the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone.

These include:

• Representation — articulating and advocating the interests of women and vulnerable populations in committee and plenary deliberations.
• Oversight — monitoring government compliance with gender equality laws and policies and to Hold the executive branch accountable through questioning, investigations, and other oversight mechanisms
• Lawmaking: Proposing, debating, amending, and passing laws especially gender-responsive legislation.
• Participation in Debates and Committee Work: Actively participating in parliamentary debates, scrutinizing bills, and contributing to committee work.
• Advisory & advocacy roles within Parliament and with stakeholders across society.
• Policy Formulation: Contributing to the formulation and implementation of government policies.
• Constituency Engagement: Engaging with their constituents to understand their needs and concerns and to report back on parliamentary activities.
• Advocacy: Advocating for specific issues and policies, particularly those related to gender equality and women’s empowerment
• Collaboration: Working with other MPs, including those in the Female Caucus, to advance common legislative objectives

These functions align with Parliament’s broader constitutional roles, with a specific focus on ensuring that laws and policies reflect a gender lens.

Female MPs play a crucial role in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone. Their activities include:

• Championing Legislation: Supporting and promoting legislation that addresses gender-based discrimination and promotes women’s rights, such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE)
• Advocating for Policy Changes: Pushing for policy changes that promote women’s participation in all sectors of society, including education, employment, and political representation
• Raising Awareness: Raising awareness about gender equality issues and the importance of women’s participation in politics and decision-making.
• Mentorship and Support: Mentoring and supporting other women in politics and encouraging their participation in the political process
• Collaboration with Civil Society: Working with civil society organizations and other stakeholders to advance the cause of gender equality.

The Female Caucus is an assembly of all female Members of Parliament that meets to pursue common legislative objectives. The President of the Female Caucus is responsible for leading this group. The Caucus provides a platform for female MPs to:

• Coordinate Efforts: Coordinate their efforts to advance gender-related legislation and policies.
• Share Experiences: Share their experiences and best practices.
• Develop Strategies: Develop strategies to address challenges and promote women’s empowerment
• Advocate Collectively: Advocate collectively for the rights and interests of women

In conclusion, the roles, responsibilities, functions, work, mandate, and activities of female Members of Parliament in Sierra Leone are vital for the country’s governance, particularly in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.

They are involved in all aspects of parliamentary work, from lawmaking and budget scrutiny to oversight and representation, with a special focus on advocating for the rights and interests of women and girls.

The Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE) was passed in 2022, which is a significant step towards advancing gender equality in Sierra Leone