Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, was honoured with the prestigious AEMA Black Prize during the recently concluded African Economic Global Convergence (AEGC) 2025 Summit held on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly at The Yale Club of New York City.

The award recognised her outstanding advocacy for gender equity, girl-child education, and national transformation, as well as her global leadership in protecting women and children’s rights.

Through her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, H.E. Dr. Bio has set a new standard across Africa in policy influence, survivor support systems, and awareness creation at both local and international levels.

Presenting the award, the AEGC Board commended her for redefining the role of First Ladies as active change-makers and champions of justice. Her work, which blends civic courage with cultural dignity, has gained widespread recognition from the United Nations, ECOWAS, and other global platforms.

This recognition not only cements her place as a humanitarian powerhouse but also amplifies Sierra Leone’s growing diplomatic and socio-economic leadership across Africa.

The AEMA Black Prize is awarded to distinguished individuals of African descent who have made global contributions to justice, leadership, enterprise, education, and cultural advancement. It is one of the highest civilian honours bestowed at the African Economic Global Convergence Summit.