NEW YORK — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has announced a permanent ban on harmful cultural practices in Liberia, including female genital mutilation (FGM), and unveiled an ambitious $8.3 billion national agenda to advance gender equality, youth empowerment, and inclusive development.
Speaking on Wednesday at the 30th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, also known as the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Boakai committed to transforming previous temporary moratoriums into a permanent national law, declaring a zero-tolerance policy for gender-based violence.
“What was once a three-year moratorium will now become national law,” Boakai stated. “We pledge zero tolerance for gender-based violence, backed by public education campaigns, awareness programs, and dedicated budget allocations.”
A Historic Milestone for Women’s Rights
This announcement is a significant victory for women’s rights advocates who have long sought permanent legal protections. While previous governments had implemented temporary bans, inconsistent enforcement left women and girls vulnerable. Boakai’s move would make Liberia one of the few African nations to codify such protections into law.
“The Beijing Declaration charted a hopeful path for women and girls,” Boakai told world leaders. “Today, Liberia reaffirms its commitment to accelerate implementation, translating global promises into local action.”
$8.3 Billion Agenda for Inclusive Development
Boakai also revealed a five-year, $8.3 billion Agenda for Inclusive Development, which targets key areas like education, healthcare, social services, and economic empowerment. The plan specifically prioritizes young people, especially girls, with the aim of closing long-standing gaps in opportunity and equality.
Flagship programs under this initiative include the Liberia Women Empowerment Project, which supports 36,000 women entrepreneurs and benefits over 260,000 people, and the REALISE Project, which provides essential tools and resources to 3,600 vulnerable households to help them achieve sustainable livelihoods.
“As an African proverb says, ‘When spider webs unite, they can tie a lion,'” Boakai said. “Similarly, when women are fully empowered and supported, entire nations triumph.”
Global Commitments and a Role on the UN Security Council
Boakai connected Liberia’s domestic reforms to its new global responsibilities as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. He pledged to elevate the voices of women and youth in international discussions on peace and security.
“As Liberia embarks on this Security Council mandate, we will ensure that the perspectives of women and youth are not only heard but also shape international policies on peace and development,” he said.
The president concluded by urging other nations to follow Liberia’s lead by investing in women’s rights and passing legislation to protect vulnerable groups.
“We will implement a national action plan for women and girls to provide a roadmap for empowerment, voice, and protection,” Boakai declared.
Comments are closed.