Empowering Women, Ending Poverty, World Bank and Liberia Partner to Strengthen Rural Agriculture
By Lazota Bility
October 27, 2025
Gbarma, Gbarpolu County: In a remarkable display of gratitude and joy, hundreds of rural women in Yangaryah Town, Gbarma District, were seen dancing, singing, and holding placards in appreciation to the Government of Liberia and the World Bank for the financial empowerment provided them through the Liberia Women Empowerment Project (LWEP).
The initiative as part of Liberia’s broader effort to fight poverty and strengthen gender equality, offers financial loans and capacity-building opportunities to women in rural communities to enhance their agricultural productivity and economic independence.
Placards carried by the jubilant women read messages such as “Thank you, Government of Liberia and World Bank, for coming to our aid” a clear sign of how impactful the initiative has been.
The celebration coincided with the Midterm Review (MTR) of the Liberia Women Empowerment Project, led by the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection with support from the World Bank.
During a field visit, several beneficiaries shared heartfelt testimonies of how the project has transformed their lives and businesses. Madam Marie Zion, owner of Marie Business Center, expressed deep appreciation for receiving half of her requested loan amount—US$2,500 saying it revived her business and allowed her to open another shop.
“That money helped me to reopen my shop and even send my children back to school,” Madam Zion said with a smile. Similarly, Hawa Gballay Varney, Chairlady of the Nunwin-Behgoon Farming Group, hailed the initiative as a major milestone for rural women. “This is the first time many of us are receiving such support.
The loan will improve food production and empower women to contribute meaningfully to the local economy,” she said. Madam Fatu Kabah, Head of the We Will Do It Multipurpose Farm, also thanked the World Bank for the financial support, promising that the funds would be used effectively to boost farming activities.
Responding to the beneficiaries’ testimonies, officials from the Liberia Women Empowerment Project emphasized that the initiative aims to enhance women’s access to finance, training, and markets particularly those in remote areas. They highlighted that supporting women-led agribusinesses not only advances gender equality but also contributes to poverty reduction and sustainable food systems. Representatives of the World Bank commended the project’s progress, reaffirming their commitment to continue working with the Liberian government in promoting women’s empowerment and strengthening the agriculture sector.
The Liberia Women Empowerment Project (LWEP) is being implemented across six counties Bomi, Gbarpolu, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Montserrado, and River Cess targeting thousands of women engaged in farming, small business, and other income-generating activities. Through this partnership, Liberia continues to take bold steps toward inclusive growth, economic empowerment, and poverty eradication.
