One-Day Engagement With Women Groups Ends In Bomi County
By Gabriel M. C. Parker
TUBMANBURG, Liberia—An initiative is underway by the Liberian government and its partners to foster positive social norms and create awareness through the Liberia Women Empowerment Project (LWEP).
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in partnership with Plan Liberia and Defense for Children International has concluded a day-long engagement with women groups and various institutions here.
The event was attended by over fifty participants, including representatives from women-led non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), and civil society organizations.
Held under the theme, “Fostering Positive Social Norms Through Start, Awareness, Support Action,” the activity took place at a community venue in this western County.
The goal of the session was to inform local women and stakeholders about the government-supported project, its objectives, and its potential impact on the communities in the region.
During the opening of the session, Madam Miatta Monger, Bomi County Gender Coordinator, highlighted the significance of the event, explaining that the engagement was designed to raise awareness among the participants about the LWEP and its implementation in Bomi.
“The gathering today is a critical step in ensuring that women in Bomi County fully understand the government-supported Liberia Women Empowerment Project,” said Madam Monger. “Our goal is to empower women, improve their livelihoods, and foster gender equality in all sectors of society,” she said.
Madam Monger also provided details about the project’s scope and the targeted communities.
It was revealed that the project would be implemented across the county, benefiting a total of 86 communities spread across five administrative districts.
“In total, 22 communities will benefit from an initial $4,000 grant, specifically designed for women involved in village savings initiatives,” Madam Monger continued. “The remaining components of the project will focus on life-changing skills programs aimed at further enhancing the capabilities of the beneficiaries.”
The Bomi County Gender Coordinator emphasized that the project’s benefits would go beyond financial support. The life skills component, she explained, would equip women with the tools and knowledge to create sustainable economic opportunities and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Also making remarks, several women participants at the session expressed their gratitude for the project and their enthusiasm for its potential to improve their lives.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity,” said one of the women attending the session. “This project will help us women build better futures for ourselves and our children. We are committed to utilizing this support to its fullest potential.”
Participants were also encouraged to take full advantage of the various programs offered under the Liberia Women Empowerment Project, which aim to promote long-term empowerment and social inclusion.
The session included discussions on the importance of women’s involvement in community leadership, economic activities, and the reduction of social barriers.
Participants were encouraged to take proactive roles in fostering positive social norms that align with the goals of the project.
Several representatives from civil society organizations also spoke during the event, offering support for the project and highlighting its alignment with broader national goals of gender equality and community development.
As the event came to a close, many women left the session feeling hopeful and empowered, ready to take the next steps toward improving their socio-economic status and contributing to the overall development of Bomi County.
The Liberia Women Empowerment Project is expected to have a significant and lasting impact on the targeted communities, with the goal of improving the lives of women and girls across the county, fostering sustainable development, and promoting gender equality at the grassroots level.
The partnership between the government, Plan Liberia, and Defense for Children International has been praised as a key step toward building a more inclusive society in Liberia, where women and girls have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
As the project progresses, stakeholders are optimistic about its success and its potential to create meaningful change in the lives of women in Bomi County and beyond.