Tubmanburg, Bomi County – As part of efforts to address issues affecting women and girls in Liberia, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection on Thursday, September 5, 2019 held an “All Men Conference” in Tubmanburg, Bomi County.
The conference brought together stakeholders including youths and traditional leaders from across the country to discuss key issues affecting women, girls and children and the role men can play in addressing sexual and gender-based violence and other gender equality and equity issues that continue to marginalize women, girls and children.
Held under the theme “Bridging the gap for gender equality in Liberia,” the event sought to attract more commitment for “HeForShe” campaign.
It also looks to encourage male involvement in the campaign and help end gender inequalities and other issues that affect women and children in all sectors of the society.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Gender Williametta E. Saydee Tarr praised the men for committing themselves to promoting “Gender-Equality” across all spheres of the Liberian Society.
“I cannot think of a more remarkable moment to strive for Gender Equality in Liberia, than now. Issues affecting women and girls have been on an increase in Liberia, whether it is domestic violence; which includes rape, economic deprivation of women and girls, physical or emotional abuse, inequality in the workplace, income disparity between working men and women,” Gender Ministry Boss noted.
She added that the Ministry of Gender in collaboration with its partners -particularly the Swedish Government and UN Women – recognizes that these issues do not only affect women and girls, but rather the overall socio-economic advancement of Liberia.
According to Madam Tarr, it is the collective responsibility of both genders (Males and Females) to create a safe space where they can jointly have honest conversations around issues affecting women and girl but with a distinct specification that Men have a key role to play in addressing the issues.
The Gender Minister said a gender-equal and violent-free society is necessary not just for the growth and enhancement of women’s participation but also it addresses poverty reduction and human development challenges across all segments of our population.
“This conference will provide the space and opportunity for information sharing and also formulate strategies to get men involved in the advocacy campaign and reaffirm their commitments to address women and girls’ issues in Liberia,” Madam Tarr said.