Advancing Women's Empowerment in Liberia and Beyond

In Monrovia, Liberia, over 50 representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), women’s rights groups, and government institutions participated in a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing women's political participation. Organized by UN Women and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the workshop included participants from the National Elections Commission (NEC), the Law Reform Commission (LRC), and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MGCSP). The initiative, supported by the European Union, Irish Aid, and Sweden, focuses on improving advocacy and leadership skills among women-led CSOs to promote gender equality and inclusive governance.

Over 50 Civil Society, Gender Advocates Trained to Boost Women’s Political Participation In LiberiaFinding Grants for Nonprofits that Support WomenCaring for women who carry the weight of peaceEloho Efemuai: We need to normalise women leading without adopting masculine templateOlam Agri celebrates academy’s 1,004 graduates

Key themes of the workshop included women's participation in politics, legal frameworks such as CEDAW General Recommendation No. 40, and Temporary Special Measures like gender quotas. Commissioner Josephine Kou Gaye of the NEC emphasized the importance of this initiative for creating a more inclusive and democratic Liberia, urging participants to view the training as a collaborative journey toward advocacy for gender inclusion.

Over 50 Civil Society, Gender Advocates Trained to Boost Women’s Political Participation In Liberia

Katherine Green, Chief Technical Advisor of the UNDP Liberia Electoral Support Project, highlighted the significance of women's political participation as Liberia approaches electoral reforms. She noted that the current electoral cycle presents an opportunity to influence long-term outcomes for gender equality. The workshop aimed to strengthen civil society engagement ahead of the 2029 elections, with Representative Ellen Attoh-Wreh stressing the necessity of continuous coordination to foster political will for increased women's participation.

Over 50 Civil Society, Gender Advocates Trained to Boost Women’s Political Participation In LiberiaFinding Grants for Nonprofits that Support WomenEloho Efemuai: We need to normalise women leading without adopting masculine templateCaring for women who carry the weight of peaceOlam Agri celebrates academy’s 1,004 graduates

Cllr. T. Celestine H. Howard of the LRC pointed out that achieving gender quotas is insufficient without equipping women with practical political and campaign management skills. This sentiment underscores the need for comprehensive support systems to ensure women's effective participation in governance.

Over 50 Civil Society, Gender Advocates Trained to Boost Women’s Political Participation In Liberia

The workshop is part of a larger movement toward women's empowerment, which includes initiatives like Olam Agri's Crown Flour Angels Baking Academy in Nigeria. This program has trained over 1,000 women in baking and entrepreneurship, equipping them with market-ready skills and professional certification. Such initiatives demonstrate the importance of economic empowerment as a foundation for broader societal change.

Olam Agri celebrates academy’s 1,004 graduates

Moreover, the role of women in peacebuilding is critical, as they often lead trauma healing and community rebuilding efforts in conflict-affected areas. However, these women frequently face mental health challenges due to their dual responsibilities of supporting others while managing their own trauma. Addressing mental health is essential for sustaining their leadership and effectiveness in peacebuilding.

Caring for women who carry the weight of peace

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Women often encounter barriers such as lack of confidence, limited access to networks, and societal expectations that hinder their leadership potential. Eloho Efemuai, a coach dedicated to empowering women, emphasizes the need to normalize women leading in their own style rather than conforming to traditional masculine templates.

Eloho Efemuai: We need to normalise women leading without adopting masculine template

The initiatives in Liberia and Nigeria, alongside the recognition of women's roles in peacebuilding, highlight the multifaceted approach needed to empower women. As these programs evolve, they not only aim to increase women's political participation but also to foster economic independence and mental well-being, ultimately contributing to a more equitable society.

Over 50 Civil Society, Gender Advocates Trained to Boost Women’s Political Participation In Liberia