WONARPI | 29 January 2026
The struggle of the Women of Malen
Once a thriving agricultural hub in Pujan district southern Sierra Leone, Malen chiefdom has become a symbol of resistance and resilience particularly for women whose life were upended in March 2011. That year marked the arrival of Socfin Agricultural Company, a multinational agroindustrial farm that leased 6,500 hectares of fertile land for 50 years.
The lease agreement signed by the paramount chief and 26 land owners excluded the free, prior and informed consent of the broader community. For many women, this marked the beginning of displacement, hunger and a prolonged fight for justice.
The lease agreement signed by the paramount chief and 26 land owners excluded the free, prior and informed consent of the broader community. For many women, this marked the beginning of displacement, hunger and a prolonged fight for justice.