The Liberian government, through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, in collaboration with partners and the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC), has officially launched the ECOWAS Gender Programs in Liberia.
Formally launching the programs, which cover Obstetrics Fistula, Girls of Excellence Scholarship, Agricultural Fishery, Arts and Crafts, and Food Processing, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection Madam Gbeme-Horace Kollie pledged Liberia’s commitment to ensuring that the anticipated gains are achieved. She emphasized national ownership alongside broader collaboration with key stakeholders and noted that the empowerment dividends for underprivileged girls would be impactful.
Addressing a gathering that included government officials, heads of some ECOWAS Specialized Institutions, key private sector actors, and ordinary Liberians, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development & Social Affairs Professor Fatou Sow-Sarr applauded the Liberian government for its unwavering support and continued commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls. She acknowledged significant progress in reducing gender gaps in recent years.
Professor Fatou Sow-Sarr noted that since the creation of the ECOWAS Gender Development Center (EGDC) in January 2003 during the 26th Session of Heads of State and Government, the center has “initiated several programs by adopting a multidimensional strategy relating to integrating the gender dimension.” This strategy involves institutionalizing gender issues; strengthening analysis; research capacities; development; establishing an information system; advocacy actions; partnership programs; and political dialogue.
The commissioner re-emphasized that the center provides medical and financial assistance to women and girls suffering from obstetric fistula. It also promotes girls in specialized technical and vocational training sectors through excellence scholarships while supporting women in improving their agricultural products' quality and competitiveness.
To further enhance these programs' viability in Liberia, EGDC Director Madam Sandra Oulate Fattoh presented copies of the Policy Brief on the center's flagship programs along with a symbolic fistula check amounting to USD$250,000. This support far exceeds previous years’ contributions.
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