Monrovia — Several women from Nimba County District 9 have honored former Liberian President Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf as part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh [email protected]
The event was organized by the office of Nimba County District 9 Representative Taa Z. Wongbe and held at the former president’s residence at Fish Market in Sinkor, Monrovia.
Among the women present was Gifty Gwaikolo, wife of the late former Representative Johnson Gwaikolo. The group praised the former president for the legacy she established during her leadership.
Reading a statement on behalf of the women of District 9, Olivia Firstlady Dahn, Executive Secretary in the office of Representative Wongbe, said the gathering was meant not only to celebrate womanhood but also to recognize a leader whose impact continues to inspire Liberian women.
According to Dahn, former President Sirleaf’s leadership remains a powerful symbol of courage and possibility. “During your presidency in Liberia, you demonstrated vision, determination, and a deep commitment to national progress,” she said.
Dahn also highlighted a proposal made by Sirleaf during her 2012 State of the Nation Address. “One of the bold ideas that continues to spark meaningful conversations about national development is your proposal made during your 2012 SONA to consider Zekepa as a potential capital city of Liberia. This idea reflected your forward-thinking leadership and your desire to promote balanced development across the country.”
She further emphasized the barriers Sirleaf broke for women in Liberia and across the world.
“You showed the world that women can lead with wisdom, strength, and compassion. Because of your example, many women today believe more strongly in their voices, their abilities, and their role in shaping the future of our nation,” she said.
“As women of District 9, we are proud to stand here today to recognize your service, celebrate your impact, and thank you for the path you have paved for women in leadership,” Dahn added.
In response, former President Sirleaf expressed appreciation to the women for traveling to meet her. “You came to thank me, but I’m glad that you came because it gives me the chance to thank you from Nimba County District #9 and others outside of your district. If it were not for you, particularly the women, I would not have the position that I’m in,” Madam Sirleaf said.
She also recalled the support she received from women during difficult moments in her political career.
“You who stood by me in some of the difficult times. You stood by me when things got rough, and they wanted to put me in jail -it was the women who went out to March for me, so I want to say thank you,” Madam Sirleaf added.
Encouraging women to pursue empowerment through education and skills training, she said: “We want to see many of you get the technical training so you can be able to know when you sell your things to know how much profit you get, and other things.”
Madam Sirleaf also urged women in Liberia and across Africa to participate more actively in politics.
Speaking at the program, Representative Wongbe praised the former president for motivating women and leaders across the country. “I must admit here today that it is because of Madam Sirleaf and also my father who encouraged me to come back home,” he told the gathering.
Representative Wongbe stated that the women had also brought gifts for the former president in recognition of her contributions. “The women have come to honor you, and they brought gifts for you as well,” Representative Wongbe added.
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