BUCHANAN – The Irish government has thrown its support behind grassroots efforts to boost women’s political participation and leadership in Liberia, following a visit by Minister Neale Richmond to the Edina Peace Hut in Grand Bassa County.
Leading a high-level Irish delegation, Minister Richmond praised the achievements of local women engaged in the Transformative Leadership Project, a community-based initiative aimed at enhancing women’s roles in politics, leadership, and peacebuilding. The project is backed by the Embassy of Ireland in Liberia and UN Women Liberia and implemented in partnership with the Women’s NGOs Secretariat of Liberia and Sister Aid Liberia Inc.
The visit highlighted the project’s growing impact in reshaping traditional gender norms, preventing electoral violence, and strengthening inclusive governance in Grand Bassa communities. Minister Richmond emphasized that advancing gender equality requires not only empowering women but also enlisting men as allies in building more inclusive and peaceful societies.
Richmond, visibly moved by the testimonies of women who have risen to positions of national influence through the program’s mentorship and training efforts, pledged continued Irish support. He underscored the importance of succession planning and mentorship, noting that empowering women to lead is critical to ensuring lasting peace and policy reform.
“These women are not just participants; they are leaders shaping Liberia’s future,” Richmond remarked. “It is time we pay greater attention to ensuring they are not only at the table but are equipped and empowered to lead it.”
