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ADNews-Monrovia, Liberia: The Regional Director for UN Women in West and Central Africa, Dr. Maxime Houinato, has lauded Liberia’s commitment to advancing women’s rights, fostering gender equality, and empowering women to participate unhindered in political and policy-making processes.
Speaking at a press conference held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the Bella Casa Hotel in Sinkor, Monrovia, Dr. Houinato praised the Government of Liberia, the international community, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in creating an inclusive environment where women can compete equally with their male counterparts.
“This is a country brimming with renewed hope and determination,” Dr. Houinato said. “There is a growing sense of optimism among the Liberian people, and our engagements with various stakeholders across the nation have reinforced this belief.”
The UN Women Regional Director is in Liberia on a high-level mission aimed at strengthening partnerships and supporting the government’s agenda for inclusive development.
Dr. Houinato commended the Liberian Government for implementing its national development blueprint—the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development—which prioritizes Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism.
“This agenda is not just a vision; it is a call to shared responsibility,” he said. “Our focus remains on accountability, not just from the government, but also from civil society organizations, international partners, and all stakeholders. Everyone must be engaged to ensure that Liberia continues making tangible progress.”
He emphasized that gender equality and the economic empowerment of women and girls must remain central to Liberia’s development efforts. “We must work collectively to ensure that every sector plays a key role in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV),” he added.
During his visit, Dr. Houinato held a closed-door meeting with Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. According to him, President Boakai reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to steering Liberia toward sustained peace, security, and national development.
“President Boakai recognizes the importance of inclusive governance and the role of women in national reconstruction,” Dr. Houinato told journalists. “His support for UN Women’s efforts in Liberia is deeply encouraging.”
In addition, Dr. Houinato met with representatives from the Ministries of National Defense, Gender, and other key institutions, as well as civil society organizations, embassies, and development partners.
“The feedback we received from these engagements is clear: Liberia is making progress. The country’s seat at the United Nations Security Council is not merely symbolic; it reflects Liberia’s growing voice in global governance,” he noted.
He added, “Sometimes, those within the country may not fully realize the importance of Liberia’s evolving role, but from an international perspective, Liberia stands as a beacon of resilience and potential.”
Reiterating UN Women’s commitment, Dr. Houinato called for increased investment in programs that support women and girls, particularly in education, skills training, and access to economic resources.
“We cannot talk about development without acknowledging the women who form the backbone of this society,” he stressed. “Empowering women is not optional; it is fundamental to economic growth and peacebuilding.”
Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Madam Gbeme Teta Horace, welcomed Dr. Houinato’s visit and praised the enduring partnership between her Ministry and UN Women.
“This partnership is critical to achieving our national development goals,” Minister Horace said. “UN Women has stood with us through every challenge and every success. We are especially grateful for their continued support in our fight against gender-based violence.”
Minister Horace noted that the collaboration has strengthened institutional capacity and expanded outreach, particularly to adolescent girls affected by pregnancy, poverty, or GBV-related trauma.
“Our focus remains an unwavering commitment to those most vulnerable,” she stated. “We want to ensure that girls return to school, that survivors of violence receive justice and care, and that women in rural areas have access to resources that can lift entire communities.”
She also appealed to the Liberian media to exercise sensitivity and professionalism when reporting cases of GBV.
“The media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and response to gender-based violence,” Minister Horace said. “Your reporting should be accurate and respectful. It should not promote blame or discrimination but rather empower communities to take action.”
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