
By Vaye A. Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia – In a bold move to advance gender equity and social justice, ActionAid Liberia officially kicked off a pivotal orientation workshop under the Liberia Women Empowerment Project (LWEP) this morning in Montserrado County. The session was opened by Elizabeth Gbah Johnson, Executive Director of ActionAid Liberia, who delivered a compelling call for collective action and local ownership.
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Office of the Superintendent, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), and the Ministries of Justice, Education, and Health. Religious and traditional leaders, civil society groups, and community-based organizations were also in attendance.
“This gathering is a strong testament to our shared commitment to gender equity, social justice, and sustainable development in Liberia,” said Johnson in her opening remarks.
Highlighting the significance of the workshop, Johnson noted that Montserrado County, as the country’s most populous and politically central region, plays a pivotal role in shaping national discourse. “When Montserrado leads, the rest of the nation pays attention,” she emphasized.
The Liberia Women Empowerment Project is a World Bank-funded initiative designed to address structural inequalities by reducing gender-based violence, promoting women’s leadership, and improving access to education and economic opportunities. It is being implemented by a consortium led by the Ministry of Gender, with key partners including Plan International Liberia, ActionAid Liberia, and KEEP Liberia, CRS, kids educational and Defence for Children international.
“This project isn’t just about delivering services,” Johnson stated. “It’s about driving structural change, influencing policy, and empowering communities from the grassroots.”
She concluded by urging local leaders and stakeholders to actively participate in and champion the initiative. “Your cultural knowledge, leadership, and local insight are crucial. For this project to succeed, it must be locally owned,” she said.
The workshop sets the tone for a broader series of engagements aimed at fostering inclusive development and empowering women and girls across Liberia.
However, the Liberia Women Empowerment Project is a US$44.6 Million Multi Section initiative to address key barriers to gender equality in Liberia which align with government priorities on women empowerment, GBV prevention, and response, while complementing ongoing projects.
Meanwhile the project will be implemented with in three years duration from 2024 to 2027, while in September 30, 2027 will the conclusion of project.
In addition, the women empowerment program will focus in six Counties which includes, Rule Montserrado, Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh and River Cess County, 498 communities with a total of approximately 267200 people that will be the beneficiaries including 36 thousand Women who receive the livelihood support, while 70% women beneficiaries and 30% men beneficiaries.