First Lady assures Government's Commitment to Women Empowerment

 First Lady Kartumu Yarta Boakai has reiterated the Liberian government’s commitment to the empowerment of women and girls in various ways possible.

Mrs. Boakai said the government believes that empowering women is not just the right thing to do but also a critical step to unlocking Liberia's fullest potential.

Delivering the keynote address at the National Observance of International Women's Day (IWD) in Congo Town, Mrs. Boakai stressed that the government will take every step necessary to ensure that women are on par with their male counterparts.

"...our government will not rest. We will forge ahead in creating environments that nurture the growth and success of women and girls throughout the fifteen counties," Mrs. Boakai asserted.

"We will intensify our collaboration with relevant institutions to secure the necessary support for programs aimed at enhancing the living standards of women, fostering education for women and girls, improving reproductive health services, and ensuring the active involvement of women in all spheres of society, especially in political leadership."

Though, barely two months in power, Mrs. Boakai recounted the already visible impact of President Boakai's appointment of capable women to key positions within the government.

"We have taken legislative steps, such as the ban on female genital mutilation and the signing of the Decent Work Bill, to protect our women," said Mrs. Boakai, adding that all relevant international instruments protecting the political and civic rights of women will be upheld.

Held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town Friday, the IWD celebration attracted thousands of women and girls from all walks of life, featuring speeches, renditions and arts - all in recognition of the achievements of women in Liberia and across the world.

As Mother of the Nation, Mrs. Boakai expressed profound gratitude to all women for their remarkable contributions throughout the nation's history.

She pointed out Africa's first female president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Nobel Laureate Leymah Gbowee, and the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace Campaign, among others.

With this year's theme being "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," the Liberian First Lady called on everyone to recommit themselves to supporting the cause of women.

"Our collective effort is paramount in investing in our women and, thereby, charting a course for a more prosperous future for Liberia and the world at large," the First Lady intuned.

The First Lady further pledged her willingness to fight along and to witness the incredible impact that can be made when we choose to invest in women.

She, however, admonished women to continue to break barriers, challenge the status quo, and build a Liberia that is equitable and prosperous for all.

Speaking earlier, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Gbeme Horace Kollie, commended the huge turnout of women to celebrate themselves.

Meanwhile, representatives from the United Nations in Liberia, local and international partners, offered their support to women's empowerment.