Ministry of Gender and children’s Affairs

Dr. Isata Mahoi is the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs of the Republic of Sierra Leone. She brings a wealth of expertise in gender equality, social justice, and inclusive development to her leadership of the Ministry. Her work is focused on advancing the rights and empowerment of women and children across the country through targeted policies and impactful national programs.

Dr. Mahoi holds a Master’s degree in Development Economics from the University of Rome and a PhD in Quantitative Modelling in Economic Policy from the Catholic University of Milan. Her academic background underpins her policy approach, which integrates rigorous research, practical experience, and inclusive frameworks aimed at sustainable development.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Mahoi has served as a consultant with the Social Development Department of the World Bank, where she contributed to strategies addressing gender-based violence and social protection. Her expertise has informed national development plans, ensuring gender is central to policymaking and implementation.

Dr. Mahoi is a distinguished academic, having lectured at the University of Makeni and the Institute of Public Administration and Management, University of Sierra Leone. She is recognized for her mentorship, thought leadership, and commitment to academic excellence.

Beyond her formal roles, Dr. Mahoi is deeply engaged in community-driven initiatives. She has championed grassroots women’s empowerment through her involvement in regional peacebuilding efforts with the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP), and through her own work supporting women-led self-help groups and agricultural cooperatives.

Her contributions to national and regional development have earned her repeated recognition, including being named among the “50 Influential Women Achievers in Africa 2024.” A committed advocate, academic, clergyperson, and community leader, Dr. Mahoi continues to be a transformative voice in shaping policies that foster equity, resilience, and long-term peace across Sierra Leone and the African continent.