The Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, has underscored the need to empower women and support their leadership in every sphere of society, and testified about the height to which women can reach when they are empowered and supported in leadership.
According to a Foreign Ministry release, Minister Nyanti made these statement at the Women’s Situation Room’s three-day Women’s Political Meditation and Peace Dialogues, held on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at the C. Cecil Dennis Auditorium, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
She expressed honor to address the distinguished gathering at the Women’s Situation Room Liberia’s Mediation Dialogues event, which she described as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in the beloved country.
Minister Nyanti reminded Liberians of the journey toward peace, security and empowerment, which is intertwined with the collective narrative of women across Liberia who have shattered ceilings, broken barriers and paved the way for future generations while at the same time recalling her path, which was marked by challenges and triumphs, and reflects the resilience and determination that define the spirit of Liberian women.
Minister Nyanti further noted that, during the 2023 presidential elections she had the privilege of representing not just a political vision but the aspirations of countless women who dare to dream of a more inclusive, just and equitable Liberia.
She added that as a female presidential candidate, “I witnessed firsthand the power of women’s leadership in fostering dialogue, building bridges, and advocating for peace”.
“Today, we gather here to underscore the critical role of women in mediation and conflict resolution. The Women’s Situation Room Liberia has been instrumental in promoting a peaceful and inclusive electoral process, demonstrating that when women are at the forefront of peace initiatives, sustainable harmony is not just a possibility but a tangible reality”, Foreign Minister Beysolow Nyanti said.
The Liberian Foreign Minister also indicated that discussions on women’s empowerment, leadership development, peace, and security are more than just thematic focal points, they are the pillars upon which we will build a stronger, more resilient Liberia, adding that it is through forums like this that we can share experiences, strategize collectively, and reinforce the commitment to a future where every woman and girl can achieve her full potential without barriers.
The Dean of the Cabinet admonishes participants of the dialogue to be inspired by the courage of Liberian women who, despite facing adversity, continue to lead, inspire, and transform the society. “Let us commit to amplifying our voices, by recognizing our contributions, and ensuring that women are rightful place at every table where decisions are made”.
Minister Nyanti then urge everyone to carry forward the spirit of collaboration and unity that this event embodies. Together, we can create a legacy of peace, empower women leaders at all levels, and forge a path toward a Liberia where every individual can contribute to our nation’s prosperity and stability.
For her part, Madam Olubanke King-Akerele, esteemed Board Chair of the Angie Brooks International Centre (ABIC) and former Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia, provided a comprehensive overview of the Women’s Situation Room’s three-day Women’s Political, Mediation, and Peace Dialogues.
The event, held under the theme “Promoting Peaceful Electoral Environment and Community Security in Liberia,” served as a vital platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration towards ensuring inclusive and peaceful electoral processes in Liberia.
In her remarks, King-Akerele emphasized the pivotal role of women in promoting democracy, peace, and security within the Liberian context.
Drawing upon her extensive experience in diplomatic and governmental spheres, she underscored the importance of harnessing women’s leadership and participation to mitigate electoral violence, enhance community security, and safeguard the integrity of democratic institutions.
“The Women’s Political, Mediation, and Peace Dialogues represent a significant milestone in our collective efforts to advance gender equality and peacebuilding in Liberia,” remarked King-Akerele.
“By bringing together diverse stakeholders, including government officials, civil society representatives, and grassroots activists, we have laid the groundwork for fostering a more inclusive and representative democracy.”
Throughout the three-day event, participants engaged in substantive discussions on critical issues affecting Liberia’s electoral landscape, including conflict prevention, gender-responsive governance, and the empowerment of women in political processes.
King-Akerele commended the Women’s Situation Room for its commitment to amplifying women’s voices and advocating for policy reforms that prioritize gender equality and social justice.
King-Akerele also highlighted the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships and collaboration in advancing the goals of peace, stability, and sustainable development.
The Angie Brooks International Centre (ABIC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting women’s leadership, gender equality, and sustainable development in Liberia and the wider African continent. Founded in honor of Angie Brooks, Liberia’s first female President of the United Nations General Assembly, ABIC works to advance the rights and well-being of women through research, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. By empowering women as agents of change, ABIC aims to contribute to a more just, peaceful, and equitable world.