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ADNews-Monrovia, Liberia: Rural women across Liberia are experiencing significant economic and social transformation through the Liberia Women Empowerment Project (LWEP), a Government of Liberia initiative supported by the World Bank implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection through national and international partners.
The impact of the project was highlighted on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2026, during the signing ceremony of a grant contract for Component Three of the project and a technical working visit by Plan International UK in Nyehn Town, Lower Montserrado County. The event brought together government officials, international partners, community leaders, and project beneficiaries.
Speaking at the ceremony, Plan International Liberia the lead implementing partner’s Country Director Miriam Murray praised the community for its commitment and ownership of the project.
“This project would not be where it is today without your dedication, participation, and support,” Murray said. “Communities that take development seriously become examples for others. When you succeed, you become ambassadors who show what is possible.”
Murray emphasized that the project goes beyond rhetoric and is backed by tangible resources.
“Today, we are talking about real action, not just words,” Madam Murray emphasized. “For too long, conversations have taken place without the resources to move forward. Access to funding is essential for growth, and this grant demonstrates seriousness and commitment.”
She added that documentation from the event would be shared widely to demonstrate impact and attract future opportunities.
“These recordings are evidence that the work is happening, that women in Liberia are serious and that this investment is making a difference,” Murray said.
Reflecting on Liberia’s legacy, Murray highlighted the country’s role as the first African nation to elect a female president, urging families to inspire girls to believe in themselves and speak out.
“Liberia’s history shows the world that women can lead, serve and make a difference,” she said.
During the technical visit, Plan International UK Director of Programmes Tsungai Mahumucha commended the community’s progress and commitment.
“I am inspired and impressed by what I have seen and heard here today,” Mahumucha said.
She praised beneficiaries for adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, noting the growing impact of climate change.
“Climate change is real, and supporting communities to adapt is one of our key responsibilities,” she said.
Mahumucha also highlighted the success of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), attributing their effectiveness to strong community ownership.
“When communities take responsibility and move forward together, sustainability is ensured and that makes us very happy,” she said.
Addressing protection concerns, she applauded the community’s zero tolerance for violence.
“One of the most powerful messages I heard today is that violence is no longer tolerated in this community,” Mahumucha said, urging residents to report abuse through proper channels, including the national 116 child helpline.
She called on families to prioritize education, particularly for girls, and warned against early marriage and school dropouts.
“Education unlocks futures,” she noted. “Please make sure your children, especially girls, remain in school.”
Also, Mahumucha encouraged men to serve as gender champions in the fight against gender-based violence.
Welcoming the delegation, Benedict Nyan, Montserrado County coordinator at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, reaffirmed government ownership of the project.
Nyan highlighted the project’s scope, explaining that LWEP is valued at US$44.6 million, with 55 VSLA groups each receiving US$4,000, in addition to support for individual businesses.
For beneficiaries, the impact has been life-changing.
Ma Fatu, a project participant, said the support transformed her small rice business.
“Before, I was selling rice by the cup. Now, I sell wholesale and in sealed bags,” Ma Fatu explained. After receiving training and a US$1,250 loan through Orange Mobile Money, her business has expanded to more than 80 bags of rice.
“I can now pay my children’s school fees and provide for my family,” Fatu said. “This support has brought dignity and hope to our lives.”
She thanked the World Bank, Plan International Liberia, and all partners working under the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.
LWEP is a US$44.6 million initiative funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection through national and international partners. The project aligns with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development by promoting inclusive, gender-responsive growth and strengthening the resilience and agency of Liberian women and girls.
As the project expands across Montserrado and other counties, partners say empowering women with skills, resources, and community support is transforming households and strengthening local economies, demonstrating that when women thrive, communities and nations move forward.
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