UN in Liberia Joins Government and People of Liberia to Commemorate International Women’s Day

This year’s International Women’s Day was held at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town,  under the global theme, “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow and the national theme, Liberian women in history: Breaking barriers and setting the stage for gender equality.”

The event was also marked by exhibitions from Liberian women and a march at the beginning of the event.

The President of Liberia, His Excellency George Manneh Weah, graced the occasion and paid tribute to the former President of Liberia, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the Vice President of Liberia, Dr.  Jewel Howard Taylor, government ministers, as all women achievers in Liberia.

President Weah commended all women in Liberia for their strength and resilience. “I want to express how proud I am for the strength and resilience of Liberian women. You are still strong despite the challenges that you face. You are collectively shattering the glass ceiling…We will continue to work hard to ensure that women are empowered,” he told the gathering.

President Weah also endorsed the recommendations of most speakers who highlighted that there is need to increase the number of women participating in politics. “Women political participation is the key to breaking barriers and promoting gender equality and a sustainable tomorrow,” said Dr Weah.

In his remarks, the UN Liberia Resident Coordinator, Mr. Niels Scott commended Liberian women and girls for being strong change makers. “History has shown that you effect change in your communities. We have a Nobel prize winner in Liberia,” he said adding that he recognized the potential of women and girls as well as their resilience and leadership. Mr. Scott however noted that while progress is being made, it is being challenged by multiple generational issues which have led to public health crisis and an increase in violence against women.

Mr. Scott also emphasized importance of full representation of women in the legislature and the need to ensure women have access to green jobs and have access to finance resources.

Meanwhile, Ms. Ghoma Karloweah, Acting Head of Programs for UN Women Liberia presented the International Women’s Day message from the UN Secretary, Antonio Guterres. “We celebrate women and girls everywhere. We celebrate their contributions to ending the COVID-19 pandemic. Their ideas, innovations and activism that are changing our world for the better. And their leadership across all walks of life,” read part of the speech.

The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Williametta Saydee-Tarr welcomed a cross section of gender equality champions to the event. She highlighted that this year’s celebrations are being held under historic circumstances because of the bicentennial celebrations. Other government Ministers and representatives from government departments, members of the Diplomatic Corp, representatives of women’s groups, civil society, media fraternity and the women and girls of Liberia attended the event.

The UN in Liberia supported the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in hosting the International Women’s Day celebrations.