–New 5-year Agenda for Inclusive Development Prioritizes Women, Youth, and Social Growth
New York, USA – Earlier today, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai addressed the Fourth World Conference on Women during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting Liberia’s ongoing commitment to gender equality, youth empowerment, and social development.
Speaking under the theme of “Recommitting to Resourcing and Accelerating the Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action,” President Boakai framed the anniversary as an urgent call to action rather than a ceremonial milestone.
“Under my leadership, Liberia is determined to move from pledges to results,” he said, emphasizing the country’s leadership on two key Action Agendas: Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, and Investing in Young People, Girls, and Future Generations.
Boakai outlined Liberia’s Agenda for Inclusive Development, a US$8.3 billion five-year plan aimed at transforming lives through initiatives focused on gender equality, youth empowerment, education, health care, and social development.
Key commitments highlighted by the President include:
- Zero tolerance for gender-based violence, with robust public education campaigns and dedicated budget allocations.
- Permanent bans on harmful cultural practices, transitioning from a temporary moratorium to nationwide law, supported by community dialogues and alternative livelihood programs.
- A National Action Plan for Young Women and Girls, providing a roadmap for empowerment, voice, and protection.
Drawing on an African proverb, Boakai stressed, “When women are fully empowered and supported, entire nations thrive.” He further underscored Liberia’s role on the United Nations Security Council, pledging to amplify the voices of women and youth in shaping the Women and Youth Peace and Security agenda.
Highlighting the impact of Liberia’s programs, the President noted:
- The Liberia Women Empowerment Project has reached 36,000 businesswomen across six counties, benefiting more than 260,000 Liberians through increased income and resilience.
- The REALISE Project supports 53,650 vulnerable households, including direct cash transfers to 16,000 families, mostly women-headed households, and business assistance to over 4,450 individuals, 80% of them women.
- Programs such as Nurture, Empower, and Protect (NEP) and Accelerating Impact for Young Women have equipped nearly 25,000 adolescent girls and young women with essential health knowledge, entrepreneurship skills, and life skills, with plans to reach more than 160,000 young women by 2031.
President Boakai concluded by reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to working with Africa and the global community to make the Beijing+30 goals a reality for this generation and the next. “Liberia is proud to stand among the first Member States leading on these vital agendas,” he said, adding, “We will continue to invest in our people, ensuring that development benefits every Liberian, regardless of gender, tribe, or region.”
