The 50/50 Group Sierra Leone was founded in 2001 by Dr. Mrs. Nemata Majeks-Walker with a bold mission to promote gender equality in political representation in Sierra Leone. The organization’s goal is to achieve  50% representation of women  alongside men in politics and decision-making arenas. Its founding was marked by a symbolic launch at the Sierra Leone  House of Parliament, attended by prominent figures such as Alhaji Dr. Ahmed Tejan-Kabba, then Head of State, and  Emeritus Professor Eldred Durosimi Jones, who highlighted the significance of women taking their rightful place in governance.

The idea for the 50/50 Group stemmed from a 2000 workshop titled “Increasing Women’s Participation in Democratic Politics,” facilitated by  Lesley Abdela and supported by the British Council in Sierra Leone. Dr. Majeks-Walker, inspired by the workshop, devised an action plan to create a group similar to the “300 Group” in England, focusing on training and advocacy to empower women in politics.

After a year of preparation, the 50/50 Group was officially launched on November 30, 2001.  It faced initial opposition, particularly from men who perceived the movement as a challenge to their authority, yet it persevered. The organization’s early support came from the British Council, which provided office space, funding for administrative costs, and resources for training.

The 50/50 Group has produced over 20 training manuals and collaborated on the  "Sierra Leonean Women’s Manifesto/Declaration” with the National Organisation for Women (NOW) and other women’s groups in the country. The group’s advocacy has expanded to address emerging issues affecting women beyond politics.

Over the years, the 50/50 Group has been led by seven presidents:

1. Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker (2001–2002)

2.  Abator Thomas (Davidson) (2003–2005)

3. Haja Mariama Fofanah (2005–2006)

4. Mrs. Harriett Turay (2007–2010)

5. Haja Saiminatu Kassim (2010–2012)

6. Dr. Aisha Ibrahim (2013–2015)

7. Dr. Fatou Taqi  (current president as of the writing of this statement)

A major milestone for the organization was the acquisition of its own building at 50 OAU Drive, Tower Hill, after moving several times due to financial constraints. The group’s first secretary, Satta Kumba Amara, played a key role in securing the land for the building.

In 2007, the 50/50 Group gained international recognition when it became the first African recipient of the Madeleine K. Albright Grant , which honors organizations promoting women's civic participation.

Throughout its  fifteen-year history, the 50/50 Group has built a strong network of supporters, including international funders like OXFAM , NDI , UN Women, and The Global Fund for Women. Despite facing challenges, including societal resistance and financial difficulties, the organization has remained committed to its vision of gender equality in leadership and continues to advocate for more women in politics.