MONROVIA – The women of Liberia’s Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) on Wednesday, February 18, formally launched their Professional Women Interactive Forum in a colorful and energetic ceremony blending worship, artistic expression, policy discussion, and leadership reflection.
The forum, established in 2001 but newly revitalized, was launched under the theme “Women Unite, Inspire Change.”
A Celebration of Unity in Color
Women from across the Ministry’s departments symbolically dressed in assigned colors representing their functions:
- Green – Fiscal Affairs
- White – Budget & Development Planning
- Pink – Economic Management
- Yellow – Administration
- Blue – Comptroller & Accountant General
- Red – Specialized Units
Organizers described the colors as representing “more than departments—they represent one united ministry working together to advance national development.”
The event opened with prayer, welcome remarks, and a dynamic musical performance by the Ministry’s women’s choir, followed by spoken-word poetry celebrating resilience, unity, and generational leadership.
“A new dawn has arrived for women to rise,” declared one performer. “Like the rising sun at the break of dawn, we will rise higher than the cotton tree.”
Partners and Allies Pledge Support
Deputy and Assistant Ministers delivered remarks affirming their support.
Acting Deputy Minister for Fiscal Affairs emphasized the broader societal impact of empowering women:
“When women are empowered, families are strengthened. When families are strengthened, communities grow. And when communities grow, nations rise.”
Assistant Minister Paul Tamba Lamine assured the women of full administrative backing.
“We are here to support you in any way we can. Let us make this a more vibrant and rewarding group of women.”
Panel Discussion Tackles Real Issues
A highlight of the event was an interactive panel discussion featuring:
- Hon. Alice Williams – Assistant Minister for External Resources
- Mrs. Ne-Suah M. Beyan-Livingstone – Founder, Rescue for Abandoned Children (REACH)
- Pastor Ruby Kaye-Samula – Senior Data Analyst & Faith Leader
Mrs. Ne-Suah M. Beyan-Livingstone – Founder, Rescue for Abandoned Children (REACH)
Pastor Ruby Kaye-Samula – Senior Data Analyst & Faith Leader
Panelists addressed workplace advancement, mentorship, empowerment, and the importance of male allies.
Minister Williams encouraged women to own their value:
“Do not minimize your achievements. When you recognize your value, others align with it.”
Mrs. Beyan-Livingstone urged women to redefine empowerment beyond financial support.
“Empowerment is not limited to money. Empowerment can be life-saving counsel. It is standing beside another woman when she is at her lowest.”
Pastor Samula offered spiritual perspective:
“Failure is only first attempt in learning. Giving up can never be an option.”
The panel also tackled tough issues such as internal competition among women and barriers to promotion. Senior management disclosed that a review of staff files is underway to address stagnation and advancement concerns.
A Permanent Platform for Growth
Minister Ngafuan, in launching the forum, committed to institutional support.
“This is a place to learn. To know the pains about women. And to build capacity.”
The ceremony concluded with networking, fellowship, and a renewed commitment to mentorship and collaboration.
Organizers described the launch as the beginning of a stronger, more intentional chapter for women within one of Liberia’s most influential institutions.
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