Empowering Women: Liberia's Bold Step towards Gender Equality"

By: Winifred Sackor

Sinkor: Amid the closing celebrations of International Women's Month, Liberia witnessed a massive event coordinated by the Women's NGO Secretariat, underscoring the invaluable contributions of women to society. With a resolute commitment to celebrating and amplifying women's voices, the one-day dialogue served as a dynamic forum for collaboration, discussion, and reflection.

Against the backdrop of Liberia's socio-political landscape, the dialogue emerged as a beacon of hope, uniting representatives from diverse sectors including government entities, NGOs, INGOs, and esteemed guests from South Sudan. It wasn't merely a gathering; it was a convergence of minds, a testament to the collective resolve to advance gender equality and uplift women and girls across Liberia.

Throughout the day, impassioned speeches resonated, echoing the aspirations of countless women striving for a fairer, more inclusive society. Esther Yango, the esteemed Executive Director of WONGSOL, delivered a poignant address, calling upon all Liberians to join hands in fortifying the capabilities of women nationwide.

 Her words resounded with urgency, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration between civil society and government institutions in translating women's agendas into tangible action.

Also in her remarks, Christine Umutoni, the UN Country Representative to Liberia, lauded Liberian women for their unwavering commitment to peace building efforts, highlighting their indispensable role in fostering stability and driving sustainable development. Her commendation served as a testament to the resilience and determination of Liberian women in the face of adversity.

Dr. Angelina Bazugba, Director of the International Transformational Institute of South Sudan, offered a unique perspective, expressing admiration for Liberia's strides in democracy. Bazugba underscored South Sudan's eagerness to glean insights from Liberia's experience in advancing gender equality and crafting progressive legislation, signaling a promising avenue for cross-border collaboration.

As the dialogue unfolded, it became abundantly clear that Liberia stands at a pivotal juncture in its journey towards gender equality. The event not only celebrated women's achievements but also underscored the urgent need for sustained efforts to address the multifaceted challenges hindering their progress. It served as a rallying cry for collective action, a call to arms for stakeholders to prioritize the empowerment of women and girls in every sphere of society.