March 4, 2025 — In a landmark move signaling strengthened cooperation, the European Union (EU) and the Government of Liberia have solidified their commitment to gender equality and sustainable development by signing the Gender and Support Measures Financing Agreements. This substantial investment, exceeding US $20 million, is poised to create transformative change across Liberia.
The signing ceremony, captured in photographs, featured Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Minister of Finance and Development Planning for the Government of Liberia, and Erica Gerretsen, Director of the European Union, formalizing the agreement. This significant financial commitment underscores the EU’s dedication to empowering Liberian women and fostering long-term, inclusive growth.
Minister Ngafuan expressed profound gratitude to the EU for their unwavering support, stating, “We appreciate the continued support from the European Union, which will have a beneficial and transformative impact on the country.” He emphasized the potential of this investment to drive meaningful progress and create lasting positive change for Liberian citizens.
The agreements are designed to ensure a collaborative approach, not only bolstering the government’s initiatives but also actively engaging civil society organizations. This dual-pronged strategy aims to maximize the impact of the investment, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively and reach the communities where they are most needed.
The EU’s commitment extends beyond mere financial support. The agreements reflect a strategic partnership that recognizes the pivotal role of women in driving sustainable development. By investing in gender equality, the EU and the Liberian government are laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future.
Expanding on the Impact:
This $20 million investment is expected to fund a range of initiatives focused on:
* Women’s Economic Empowerment: Programs aimed at providing women with access to financial resources, skills training, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
* Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response: Initiatives designed to combat gender-based violence, support survivors, and promote gender equality.
* Strengthening Civil Society: Support civil society organizations working on gender equality and sustainable development, ensuring their active participation in implementing the agreements.
* Education and Healthcare: Initiatives focusing on improving access to education and healthcare for women and girls, ensuring their full participation in society.
* Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Protection: Projects that integrate gender considerations into sustainable agriculture and environmental protection, recognizing the crucial role of women in these sectors.
The signing of these agreements marks a pivotal moment in the partnership between the EU and Liberia. It is a testament to their shared commitment to building a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all Liberians, with a particular focus on empowering women as agents of change. The investment will be closely monitored to ensure transparency and accountability, maximizing its impact and contributing to Liberia’s long-term development goals.
