The United Nations has highlighted the challenges faced in Liberia when it comes to implementing sustainable solutions and tracking progress in poverty reduction. The lack of data on poverty levels in the country makes it difficult to measure the impact of initiatives aimed at empowering women and marginalized communities.
During the observance of International Women’s Day in Congo Town, UN Women Liberia Country Representative Comfort Lamptey emphasized the importance of addressing this data gap. She pointed out that without accurate information, efforts to combat poverty and empower women are hindered, leading to continued inequalities and exclusion.
In response to this issue, Lamptey called on the Government of Liberia to invest in collecting gender data to support international partners in their poverty alleviation efforts. UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni echoed this sentiment, stressing the need to support women’s organizations and invest in programs to end violence against women and promote their inclusion in various sectors.
The event also recognized individuals for their contributions to women’s empowerment in Liberia. Madame Teanneh Brunson was honored as the best public servant, Korpo Howard as the most influential woman of the year, and Madam Oretha Thomas as the most dedicated staff at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.
Overall, the celebration of International Women’s Day served as a reminder of the importance of data-driven interventions and collective strategies in achieving gender equality and empowering women in Liberia. It highlighted the progress made in women’s representation and empowerment while emphasizing the need for continued support and investment in initiatives that benefit women and marginalized communities.
