CRS Deputy Boss Calls for Genuine Investment In Liberia’s Girls at International Day of a Girl Child’s Forum
By Ida Reeves
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MONROVIA — The Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Deputy Chief of Party has challenged the government, development partners, and local communities to genuinely invest in girls’ empowerment, emphasizing that doing so will build stronger families, healthier communities, and a more prosperous future.
Speaking as the keynote speaker at a daylong interactive forum organized by the Conference United Methodist Women in celebration of International Day of a Girl Child, Madam Fatu MK Kamara stressed the importance of ensuring that every girl child has access to quality education, protection from harmful practices, opportunities for leadership, and a supportive environment in which she can thrive.
With over hundred participants in the forum, Madam Kamara noted that Liberia can unlock the immense potential of its next generation of women leaders “if we invest in girls’ empowerment.”
Held under the global theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights!” and the local sub-theme, “Empowered by Faith, Protect Her Purpose,” the event highlighted the ongoing need to prioritize gender equality.”We need to stand up and work hard, for the Bible says faith without work is dead. We must claim our rights, make decisions that affect our bodies, break down barriers, and shape the future,”.
Madam Kamara emphasized.She added: “We cannot be agents of change while expecting a benefactor to gift us an iPhone 17, we cannot be agents of change while giving away our bodies for peanuts, and we cannot be agents of change while still expecting our male counterparts to make decisions for us.”
Madam Kamara urged all stakeholders to create an environment where girls are encouraged to dream boldly, supported in pursuing their aspirations, and protected from anything that seeks to destroy their future.
“To have faith and be empowered means taking back what is rightfully ours, trusting our decisions, having confidence in our potential and purpose, living according to God’s purpose, leading, innovating, and becoming agents of change,” she stated.
Commemorated annually on October 11, the International Day of the Girl Child recognizes girls’ rights and highlights the unique challenges they face worldwide.
The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 66/170 on December 19, 2011, with its first observance held on October 11, 2012.The observance draws global attention to critical issues affecting girls, including unequal access to education, gender-based violence, child marriage, discrimination, and limited participation in decision-making processes. It also serves as a platform to advocate for girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.
In Liberia, the observance provides an opportunity for government institutions, development partners, civil society organizations, schools, and communities to raise awareness, celebrate achievements, and strengthen efforts to dismantle barriers limiting girls’ full participation.
She expressed gratitude to the Conference United Methodist Women for organizing such an impactful conversation, Madam Kamara noted that it was both an honor and a privilege to speak to Liberia’s next generation of leaders as stakeholders reaffirm their commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where every girl can thrive, lead, and learn.
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