Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-11 01:16:00
In Liberia, poverty remains a significant barrier to progress and development, hindering the country’s ability to implement sustainable solutions and track progress over time. The lack of data on the poverty stage in Liberia presents a major challenge in addressing this issue effectively.
On March 8, 2024, during the observance of International Women’s Day in Congo Town, the UN Women Liberia Country Representative, Comfort Lamptey, highlighted the critical importance of having accurate data to understand the depth of poverty in Liberia. This data gap not only exacerbates inequalities but also undermines the rights and well-being of marginalized communities, especially women and girls who are disproportionately affected by poverty.
Lamptey emphasized that without up-to-date data, efforts to combat poverty and empower women across the country are hindered. The absence of accurate information makes it difficult for policymakers and organizations to tailor interventions and allocate resources where they are most needed. This ultimately perpetuates a cycle of poverty and exclusion, silencing the voices of those most in need.
To address this pressing issue, Lamptey called upon the Government of Liberia to invest in collecting gender data to aid international partners in poverty alleviation efforts. She stressed the importance of supporting women’s organizations and investing in programs to end violence against women, promote women’s inclusion and leadership in various sectors, and empower them in areas such as digital technologies, peacebuilding, and climate action.
UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni echoed Lamptey’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for collective action to empower women and girls in Liberia. She highlighted the importance of women raising their voices and advocating for girls’ education and empowerment, emphasizing the transformative impact of education on breaking the cycle of poverty and discrimination.
During the International Women’s Day celebration, individuals were recognized for their contributions to society. Madame Teanneh Brunson was honored as the best public servant, Korpo Howard as the most influential woman of the year, and Madam Oretha Thomas as the most dedicated staff at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.
In conclusion, the lack of data on poverty in Liberia is a significant challenge that impedes the country’s progress towards sustainable development. By investing in gender data collection, empowering women and girls, and promoting inclusive policies, Liberia can take meaningful steps towards combating poverty, promoting gender equality, and creating a more prosperous future for all its citizens.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
