NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia – A 22-year-old mother of five is appealing for public assistance and calling on men to support their families. Patience Wehyee cares for her children, including one-year-old triplets, alone in Wea-Beamwea Town.
“I am bearing the weight of raising our children alone,” Wehyee said. “It is a burden I should not carry by myself.” Wehyee stated the father of her triplets left when she was eight months pregnant. She said the father of her three-year-old twins also provides no support.
The young mother now seeks help from kind-hearted individuals to feed and shelter her children. “I feel completely incapacitated,” she said.
“It is time for men to step up and be accountable,” Wehyee stated. “Give your partners and children the attention they deserve.”
She warned that abandoning a family carries consequences. “According to the Bible, this is a serious sin. God will hold you accountable,” Wehyee said.
Local authorities report many similar cases. Yaah Belleh Suah coordinates the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in Nimba County.
“These cases are heartbreaking,” Suah said. “Men are refusing to take responsibility.” Suah cited a lack of government funding. She said it hinders efforts to provide assistance and hold individuals accountable.
The Ministry is urging men to fulfill their duties. It is also appealing to the government and development partners for necessary resources.
Wehyee’s plea highlights a widespread challenge in the region. She remains the sole provider for her five young children.
