The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has strongly condemned the public abuse of Ms. Korto Vangbana, a 38-year-old mother of five, who was reportedly tied and beaten in Ballah Baloma Town, Gbarpolu County, for failing to participate in a traditional town cleaning activity.
The Ministry described the August 24, 2025 incident as a gross violation of human rights, particularly infringing upon the dignity and religious freedom of women and girls in Liberia.
According to initial reports, Ms. Vangbana was assaulted in the rain along with her baby, on the orders of a traditional leader identified only as Mr. Togba. Community sources say the punishment was imposed despite Ms. Vangbana informing local authorities that she had been working on her farm and that her Christian beliefs prevent her from engaging in certain traditional practices.
“This case underscores the urgent need to eliminate harmful traditional practices that endanger the rights, safety, and dignity of women and girls,” said Hon. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Minister of Gender.
“No tradition or local rule supersedes the rights enshrined in the Constitution of Liberia and international human rights conventions.”
Swift Intervention and Ongoing Investigation
Upon receiving the report, the Ministry responded promptly. Ms. Vangbana and her children were placed under protective custody at the Bopolu City police station, while the alleged perpetrator, Mr. Togba, was arrested and is currently under investigation.
The Ministry, in collaboration with ActionAid Liberia, has provided initial psychosocial support to the survivor. Plans are underway to relocate her and her children to Monrovia, where they will be placed in a Safe Home for continued care and protection.
The Ministry has also engaged the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Internal Affairs to ensure both the survivor’s safety and the prosecution of those responsible.
Meanwhile, partner organizations including the Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) have been mobilized to provide ongoing psychosocial support, shelter, food, and empowerment assistance.
Public Urged to Report Gender-Based Violence
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights of women and children, the Gender Ministry is encouraging citizens to report all forms of gender-based violence by calling the GBV 116 toll-free hotline.
“No woman should ever be subjected to such degrading and inhumane treatment—regardless of tradition, religion, or local customs,” Minister Horace-Kollie emphasized.
As the investigation continues, the Ministry assures the public of its firm commitment to ensuring justice for Ms. Vangbana and accountability for the perpetrators.
