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ADNews – Margibi County: The sixth Intergenerational Leadership Retreat of the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) commenced on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at the Farmington Hotel. This three-day event aims to strengthen women’s leadership globally, aligning with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the Global Agenda 2030.
By: Benjamin Q. Johnson benjaminqjohnson@gmail.com
Since its establishment in 2017, AWLN has focused on creating an inclusive network that empowers diverse women, including youth, through mentorship and collaboration. This year’s retreat, themed “Empowering the Next Generation of Women Leaders in a Beijing+30 Era: Paving the Way for a Sustainable, Equitable, and Prosperous Future for All,” underscores the commitment to fostering leadership growth.
The retreat is a joint initiative of the African Union Commission (AUC) and the United Nations (UN), with support from the African Union’s special envoy for women, peace, and security, UN Women, and the Federal Government of Germany. This co-mentoring platform brings together women from various generations to share leadership experiences and insights.
In her keynote address, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, H.E. Gbeme Horace Kollie, spoke on behalf of President Joseph N. Boakai. She emphasized the importance of empowering young women leaders and reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to gender parity. “This event holds profound significance not only for Liberia but for Africa as a whole,” she stated.
Kollie highlighted the importance of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, noting, “In this Beijing+30 Era, our charge is to transform this legacy into tangible progress.” She pointed to the government’s efforts to enhance women’s representation in leadership roles and urged participants to recognize the critical role of young women in driving societal progress.
“The Government of Liberia has set a precedent in gender inclusiveness,” she affirmed, encouraging aspiring women leaders to adopt a resilient mindset: “No obstacle is insurmountable, and you too can achieve the successes of those who came before you.”
Kollie stressed that empowering young women in leadership is essential for societal progress: “When young women are equipped with mentorship and opportunities, they drive progress across all sectors. Neglecting this mission would exclude critical perspectives from decision-making and hinder our nations’ growth.”
She expressed President Boakai’s strong support for AWLN’s initiative, emphasizing that empowering young women is vital for Africa’s advancement: “To overcome barriers, intergenerational collaboration is essential. We cannot afford to let this mission lapse; empowering young women is not only a matter of fairness but a critical factor for development.”
Kollie also commended trailblazing women leaders, particularly Liberia’s own Patron, Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, for their pivotal roles in paving the way for future generations. “Passing the torch to the next generation is necessary and serves as a catalyst for change. Their leadership, tenacity, and courage have brought us to this significant milestone.”
Empowering the Next Generation: Madam Comfort Lamptey Advocates for Women’s Leadership in Liberia
Madam Comfort Lamptey, the UN Women’s Country Representative to Liberia, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational dialogue in nurturing young women leaders. Speaking at the opening of the AWLN retreat, Lamptey highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to build and strengthen women’s leadership across Liberia and the African continent.
“Youth leadership transcends generations, and it is essential for us to engage in meaningful conversations that honor our history and shape the legacy we aspire to create for future generations of African women,” Lamptey stated. She recognized Liberia as a fitting backdrop for this dialogue, citing the impactful leadership of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and other prominent women leaders.
Lamptey praised the Liberia National Chapter of AWLN for its commitment to fostering intergenerational leadership, particularly through the newly established Youth Caucus, which serves as a platform for young women to engage in governance and decision-making processes. “This initiative reflects our shared focus on the critical role young women play in shaping the future of our communities and countries,” she said.
The retreat aims to inspire connection and progress, forming part of UN Women’s broader mission to advance women’s leadership throughout Africa. “As we continue our work to promote youth leadership and mentorship, we pledge our unwavering support to Liberia and its initiatives,” Lamptey affirmed.
As discussions unfold, participants reflect on their experiences, ensuring that the legacy of trailblazers informs the paths of emerging leaders. The gathering aims not only to celebrate past achievements but also to ignite bold visions for the future.
In closing, Lamptey expressed hope for a fruitful retreat filled with deep learning and renewed strength: “Together, we can forge a path toward a more inclusive and equitable future for women in Liberia and beyond.”
The retreat has attracted prominent figures, including former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and other esteemed diplomats, underscoring the global commitment to advancing women’s leadership in Africa. Participants will engage in dialogue aimed at bridging generational gaps, developing strategic networks, and promoting gender equality, with the goal of empowering the next generation of women leaders to shape Africa’s future.
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