By Samuel Flomo, Jr.
Thirty women leaders from Lofa, Nimba, and Bong counties have successfully completed a four-day Regional Women Democracy Education Training.
The training was aimed at equipping the women with leadership and advocacy skills to drive community transformation.
Organized by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD), under the UNDP Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP) with financial support from the European Union, Irish Aid, and the Embassy of Sweden.
The training was held from October 14–17, in Gbarnga, Bong County.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen women’s participation in politics and governance, ensuring they play a greater role in shaping development agenda at both local and national levels.
Participants included former electoral candidates, community advocates, women-led organization heads, and county representatives all determined to become stronger voices for change and inclusion in their respective counties.
At the opening of the session, NIMD Program Manager, Counselor Darren Domah, explained how the training was designed to move women from conducting awareness to take actions.
“This is not just about information sharing,” Cllr. Domah said, adding: “It is about building women leaders, who can confidently drive local solutions to development challenges.”
Madam Beatrice Newland, a prominent Women’s Human Rights Advocate, called on the participants to unite around shared goals, and advocate for meaningful representation.
“When women organize and speak with one voice, they do not just demand change, but to make it happen,” she said.
Participants committed themselves to use the skills gained to promote accountability, inclusion and good governance in their communities.
They then appealed to the government, civil society, and development partners to continue supporting initiatives that will empower women, and expand their influence in decision-making.