By: Shallon S. Gonlor |
shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia — Madam Yea Dolopaye, Region 3 Coordinator for Nimba, Bong, and Lofa counties of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), is leading the charge for women’s full inclusion in Liberia’s national security sector.
In an interview with WomenVoices News in Nimba County, Madam Dolopaye shared her experiences and achievements at LIS’s high-level decision-making table, where she has been making waves for over years.
“Women bring a different energy to security,” she said. “We’re not just about enforcing the law; we are about protecting our communities and keeping our people safe.”
Madam Yea Dolopaye, Region 3 Coordinator for Nimba, Bong, and Lofa counties of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), highlighted her contributions to strengthening national security and combating cross-border crimes.
She brings unique skills in de-escalation, communication, and emotional intelligence, improving conflict resolution and risk management.
“Over the years, I’ve been instrumental in professionalizing border management,” Madam Dolopaye said. She emphasized that women in security enhance operational effectiveness through increased observational skills, improved client trust, and critical expertise in searching female subjects and handling sensitive situations.
Madam Dolopaye grades her performance as successful and impressive, citing her roles as County Commander for Nimba and now Region 3 Coordinator. She credits her smooth working relationship with colleagues and officers, saying, “Security is everyone’s business.”
As regional commander, she works closely with three county commanders, including two males and one female. “I feel part and parcel of the job I’m doing as a woman,” she said. “It’s time for women to stand up to the challenge and compete with their male counterparts.”
Madam Dolopaye encourages women to pursue careers in security: “What I want to ask all women out there, security is not for men alone. Women should take the challenge too. When you are there, just do what you are supposed to do… Let us stand up to the challenge.”
Madam Dolopaye emphasized the crucial role women have played in security globally and believes it is time Liberia catches up. “We have proven ourselves capable, and it’s time we are given the chance to contribute at all levels,” she said.
Her advocacy is inspiring women in Nimba and beyond to pursue careers in security, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective security force in Liberia.
Why Women Are Important For The Security Sector?
The security industry needs more women, but we still question their importance. Overcoming stereotypes is a major hurdle women face when entering this profession. The focus should be on the skills that make a great security officer: keen communication, observational skills, decision-making, and keeping people safe.
So, why are women important for the security sector? They bring a unique approach, intuition, and risk assessment skills. Women are better at avoiding risk and handling conflict calmly, often using diplomacy and problem-solving to diffuse aggressive situations.
Their calming nature and approach can prevent violent outcomes. Women can also access areas males can’t, like female spaces, making everyone feel safe and respected. A female security presence is more approachable, especially for young people and children.
Diverse teams are essential for security roles that require adaptability and competitiveness. However, women are put off by the male-dominated industry, the perceived lack of opportunities, and discrimination.
It’s time to focus on qualities like empathy, intelligence, and communication, rather than just strength. Women are a valuable security asset, and equality should be a key factor in the sector.
