Gender Deputy Minister Stresses Commitment to Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection

By Amos Harris

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The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has officially launched its Five-Year Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 during a ceremony held over the weekend at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Monrovia.

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Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister for Gender Garmai S. Tokpah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing women’s empowerment, enhancing child protection services, and improving the welfare of vulnerable populations across Liberia.

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Deputy Minister Tokpah explained that the strategic plan establishes a clear framework for guiding policy implementation, strengthening institutional capacity, and promoting social inclusion from 2026 through 2030. She emphasized that the document will direct the ministry’s collaboration with development partners and civil society stakeholders, ensuring that social protection programs deliver practical benefits to communities in need.

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Delivering remarks on behalf of the One UN Family, Madam Pasiphan Chirwa reaffirmed the United Nations’ support for the ministry in implementing the multi-year roadmap.

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Madam Chirwa commended the ministry for conducting broad consultations during the plan’s development, while stressing the importance of community involvement during the implementation phase. She noted that development initiatives often gather community input during the drafting process but fail to engage those same citizens during execution. She urged the ministry to ensure that vulnerable groups and local community members remain active partners throughout the rollout of the strategic plan.

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Representing the Ministry of Labour, Madam Juah V. Nimene, Director of the Gender and Social Inclusion Unit, expressed her ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Gender. She highlighted key areas for inter-ministerial cooperation, particularly regarding gender equity, combating child labor, and addressing human trafficking.

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As Liberia works toward inclusive economic and social development, the effective implementation of the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan will serve as a vital mechanism for improving living standards and safeguarding the rights of women, children, and marginalized groups across the nation.