HARPER, Maryland County – Local authorities, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, women’s groups, and human rights advocates have pledged their support to the implementation of the Liberia Spotlight Initiative 2.0 Project aimed at combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and promoting the rights of women and girls.
By Peter P. Toe, Jr. | [email protected]
The commitment was made during a one-day inception meeting held June 9, 2026 at the Harper City Hall Conference Hall, organized by Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia with support from UN Women and funding from the European Union.
The gathering brought together county officials, chiefs, commissioners, security personnel, religious leaders, youth representatives, service providers, and development partners, who stressed the need for a united response to violence against women and girls.
Speaking at the event, WONGOSOL Project Officer Mrs. Jeneba M. Vessellie said lasting progress in addressing gender-based violence depends on collective action, coordination, partnerships, and a strong women’s movement across Liberia.
The launch marks the beginning of stakeholder mapping and assessment activities in eight counties—Maryland County, Montserrado County, Nimba County, Lofa County, Grand Cape Mount County, Grand Gedeh County, Grand Bassa County, and Bong County—to identify women’s rights organizations, available services, referral pathways, and existing gaps in efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.
Representing UN Women, Spotlight Initiative Coordinator Ms. Deodaata Mukazyire emphasized the importance of survivor-centered approaches and stronger grassroots networks in tackling sexual and gender-based violence.
Under the initiative, approximately 100 civil society organizations and women’s rights groups will be assessed to determine their capacity and readiness to manage programs and resources. Selected organizations will receive technical support, advocacy training, and capacity-building assistance.
Project officials say the initiative will strengthen collaboration between government institutions and women’s organizations, improve accountability, enhance advocacy efforts, and increase access to quality services for survivors of violence.
At the close of the meeting, stakeholders unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the program, expressing confidence that the partnership between WONGOSOL, UN Women, the European Union, government agencies, and community actors will contribute significantly to reducing violence against women and girls and advancing gender equality across Liberia.
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