PHOTO: AFELL leaders and members pose for picture after the induction
The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) has held its induction ceremony for new officers at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia, with the President reaffirming her commitment to advocating for women and girls.
The re-elected president, Cllr. Philomena T. Williams pledged her unwavering commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
During the induction ceremony over the weekend, Cllr. Williams told legal practitioners, civil society representatives, and government officials under the theme, “Together Let’s Rise Up to Strengthen the Rule of Law for Justice.
”Cllr. Philomena T. Williams and her Vice President and others were unanimously re-elected as President of AFELL. She emphasized the organization’s persistent focus on combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), promoting child protection, and eradicating harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM).
As she took the oath of office, Cllr. Williams underscored the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders. She stressed that collective efforts are vital to ensuring equitable access to justice for all Liberians, especially vulnerable women and children. AFELL remains committed to fostering a legal environment where human rights are protected and upheld consistently across the nation.
Despite these strides, AFELL faces significant challenges, primarily the inadequate funding for SGBV prevention and response services. Over 70% of these services rely on international donor support, raising sustainability concerns.
The Female Lawyers Assoicaition and allied organizations urged the government to increase national ownership through dedicated budget allocations. They argue that sustainable funding is essential to preserve the progress made and to ensure that critical services for survivors remain effective and long-lasting.
AFELL recently launched a significant project targeting rural women in conflict-related areas, particularly within concession zones. Supported by UN Women and the Peace Building Fund, this initiative aims to empower women by enhancing their capacity to engage with and monitor concession agreements. The project also provides legal aid to survivors of SGBV, ensuring that justice is accessible beyond urban centers and reaches marginalized communities.
The organization has played a crucial role in advocating for the enforcement of Liberia’s ban on FGM. AFELL continues to collaborate closely with traditional leaders, government agencies, and international partners to eliminate this harmful practice. Their efforts have led to increased awareness and stronger enforcement mechanisms to protect women’s bodily integrity and dignity.
For her part, Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh has vowed to return to AFELL after her retirement as Chief Justice soon.
“Volunteer your services always to where you find yourself and don’t need to be called before partaking” Chief justice Yuoh encouraged legal professionals.
Justice Yuoh promised to go to the rural part of Liberia to educate rural women on their various rights after her retirement.
She added that she continued to champion women and girls’ rights as long as she is alive.