The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Liberia Chapter successfully concluded its observance of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with a program that drew together students, members of the disabled community, and key stakeholders to amplify the fight against violence targeting women and girls.
This year’s theme: “From talk to action! Let us join hands to end violence against women and girls to achieve Beijing +30” served as the foundation for discussions and calls to action during the event, which emphasized education, collaboration, and advocacy as critical tools for addressing gender-based violence.
The program featured a keynote address delivered by FAWE-Liberia’s National Coordinator, Mallias Z. Sheriff, who highlighted the importance of empowering women and girls through education to dismantle socio-cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequality.
“Our focus on the prevention and elimination of violence against women can be achieved through our collective efforts,” he stated. Sheriff further emphasized the organization’s vision of a society where girls and women have access to quality education and training to achieve their full potential.
A panel discussion formed the heart of the program, bringing together voices from diverse backgrounds to engage students and participants on the realities and drivers of violence against women.
Panelists, including representatives from social, legal and technical backgrounds, shared personal stories and actionable insights. They stressed the need for collective responsibility in raising awareness and creating policies that protect women and girls. Students actively participated in the dialogue, raising their own concerns and gaining deeper insights into the structural issues surrounding gender-based violence.
Ms. Lorpu Mannah, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, commended FAWE’s initiatives in addressing gender inequality and promoting educational opportunities for girls. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering support, pledging continued collaboration to ensure that schools become safe spaces where girls can flourish. “The Ministry of Education stands committed to supporting programs like this to ensure that no girl is left behind,” she stated.
FAWE-Liberia’s broader programs were highlighted during the event, showcasing a range of initiatives designed to uplift and empower women. These include teacher training programs, technical and vocational education (TVET), life skills development, scholarships, and advocacy projects.
FAWE is also actively engaged in combating school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV) through its partnership with organizations such as the Mastercard Foundation and Chemonics. Sheriff mentioned the ongoingSecond Chance Pathways for Increased Access to Tertiary Education for Marginalized Young Women and Men project, which focuses on empowering women through technical and STEM education in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and private institutions.
The program also delved into the alarming statistics on gender-based violence in Liberia. Citing findings from Liberia’s 2020 Demographic and Health Survey, it was revealed that 60% of women aged 15-49 had experienced physical violence, with 33% reporting such experiences within the 12 months preceding the survey. Sheriff called for urgent action, stating, “It is incumbent upon us as individuals and organizations to double our efforts in sensitizing people about the harm of perpetrating violence against women and girls and for the Government to come up with more stringent measures and policies.”
FAWE-Liberia reiterated its commitment to tackling the root causes of violence against women. The organization identified major drivers, including societal acceptance of violence, rigid gender stereotypes, male dominance in decision-making, and cultures of masculinity that promote aggression and control. Sheriff stressed the importance of promoting women’s independence and decision-making power while holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
As the 16 Days of Activism drew to a close, the program left attendees inspired to carry the torch forward. Sheriff concluded his remarks with a rallying call: “Let’s bond, let’s collaborate, and let’s do it!” The event underscored the power of collective efforts in creating a world where women and girls can live free from violence and inequality.
Joseph Daniels reports for OK FM Liberia as Executive Mansion Correspondent. With a vested interest in making the voices of people from different walks of life heard, he has covered investigative stories relating to education, health, the environment, corruption, and violence against women and girls, among others. He graduated from the United Methodist University with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Mass Communications in 2020. Joseph is also a fellow at New Narratives, a non-profit organization helping media deliver independent, truthful information to its people so they can make informed decisions.
