The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has extended warm congratulations to the Liberia Football Association (LFA) for the successful launch of its nationwide Women’s Football Program aimed at girls aged 6 to 12.
Gender Minister Madam Gbeme Horace-Kollie described the initiative as “a significant milestone in nurturing early talent among adolescent girls, expanding opportunities for girls in sports, and strengthening the foundation for women’s football in Liberia.”
The new program aligns with FIFA’s Women’s Football Strategy—LITTLE PHENOMS—which is designed to foster safe, inclusive, and engaging spaces for young female players across the country.
Minister Horace-Kollie praised LFA President Mustapha Raji and the Women’s Football Department for their visionary leadership in creating a secure and inspiring pathway for girls to discover and develop their potential in football. She emphasized that the initiative goes beyond athletic development, contributing to confidence-building, teamwork, and personal growth among young girls nationwide.
The Ministry also encouraged the LFA to continue prioritizing strong social protection measures for all girls enrolled in women’s football programs, stressing that ensuring their safety both on and off the pitch remains essential.
Over 300 enthusiastic young girls participated in the program’s launch, proudly expressing themselves on the field.
The Ministry further urged women’s football administrators, female players, coaches, and referees to make full use of the National 116 Toll-Free Hotline to report any form of violence, harassment, or abuse—whether on the pitch, during training, in dressing rooms, or elsewhere. “Your voices and your protection matter,” the Ministry emphasized.
Additionally, the Ministry expressed hope for deeper collaboration with the LFA, particularly in sharing relevant data on women’s development programs and fully involving the Ministry in all women’s football initiatives across the country.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Ministry vowed to continue partnering with the LFA to promote women’s empowerment, safeguard the rights of girls in sports, and build a sporting environment where every young talent can thrive without fear.
The Ministry also encouraged other sports federations to follow the LFA’s example by creating similar sports-empowerment programs for adolescents. Congratulations once again to the Liberia Football Association for this bold and empowering step.
