MONROVIA, Aug. 29 (LINA) – The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection through the ECOWAS Gender Development Center (EGDC) has launched the ECOWAS Fistula Program in Liberia aimed at addressing some of the most pressing challenges communities are faced with.

Serving as Chief launcher of the program on Thursday, August 29, 2024, in Congo Town, the Minister of Gender Gbeme-Horace Kollie stated that the project does not only seek to restore health and dignity but to raise awareness about the condition, its causes, and how they can work together to prevent it, and give support to survivors.

“Among the many initiatives supported by the ECOWAS Gender Desk, we highlight today the Fistula Project, a critical program providing medical and financial support for women and girls suffering from obstetric fistula, the Gender boss explained.

The program which was held under the theme: Strengthening Women’s Social and Economic Empowerment, Minister Horace pointed out that ECOWAS has also been instrumental in providing financial support for women in agribusiness, fisheries, arts and crafts.

She said these programs are designed to enhance the economic empowerment of women, allowing them to contribute more significantly to the economic fabric of the country.

“As we launch these initiatives, we do so with a vision of a future where gender inequality is a thing of the past, where every woman and girl in Liberia has the opportunity to live a life of dignity, free from discrimination and violence,” she indicated.

“Our being here is not just to inaugurate projects, but to celebrate the resilience and potential of Liberian women and girls whose lives we are committed to transforming through these initiatives,” Gender boss emphasized.

Over the years, she noted, that the ECOWAS Commission has been a steadfast partner in the journey to uplift and empower women and girls in Liberia.

She further called upon all Liberian citizens, government agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector, communities, and international partners to join in the endeavor.

She then extended deepest gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission for their unwavering support and commitment to the women and girls of Liberia, acknowledging the tireless efforts of implementing partners whose dedication ensure that these programs reach those who need them the most.

For her part, the Commissioner of the Human Development and Social Affairs at ECOWAS, Fatou Sow Sarr, expressed gratitude to the Head of State and the Government of Liberia for the commitment and constant support to the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre programs implemented on Liberia soil which will strengthen and create an environment more favorable to the development of women and girls across the country.

“Every step we take to promote gender equality is a step towards a more prosperous and harmonious future for all. Let’s continue to walk this path together with determination and hope,” she encouraged.