The Ministry of National Defense, in collaboration with UN Women Liberia, has signed a landmark agreement to implement the initiative, funded by the Elsie Initiative Fund, aimed at breaking down systemic barriers that have limited women’s involvement in military service and international peace missions.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defense headquarters in Monrovia and featured Brigadier General Geraldine Janet George, Liberia’s first female Minister of National Defense; UN Women Country Representative Comfort Lamptey; and Brigadier General Davidson Fayiah Forleh, Chief of Staff of the AFL.
Under the project, the AFL will roll out a series of nationwide recruitment and awareness campaigns, targeting young women in high schools and universities.
The program will also provide specialized pre-deployment training in combat readiness, driving, language skills, and technology, equipping female soldiers with the technical and operational competencies needed for global peacekeeping missions.
Speaking at the event, Minister George described the initiative as “a milestone not only for women, but for the entire Armed Forces of Liberia.”
Continuing, she stated: “When we have more intelligent, qualified, and talented women in decision-making positions, it creates benefits for everyone in the military, including our male personnel, noting that she acknowledged that progress has been made, the country must go further.
She, amongst other things noted that though Liberia hasn’t yet reached its 15% target, this administration, led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai is committed to achieving 8–10% female representation in the coming years.
For her part, UN Women Country Representative, Madam Comfort Lamptey, underscored the significance of the project as Liberia prepares for its new role on the UN Security Council.
“This partnership comes at a pivotal time. Liberia is well-positioned to demonstrate leadership in women’s empowerment within the security sector, especially with a woman serving as Minister of Defense. This initiative will allow Liberia to set a powerful example on the global stage,”
Lamptey stated.
Institutional Strengthening and Policy Reform
The project will also focus on strengthening the Gender and Social Inclusion Department of the AFL and revising policies on recruitment, retention, and protection from sexual harassment and exploitation.
By addressing institutional gaps and cultural barriers, the program seeks to create a more inclusive, professional, and accountable defense sector.
A New Chapter for Liberia’s Military
With this bold initiative, Liberia continues to build on its legacy as a regional leader in women’s empowerment and post-conflict recovery.
The move is being hailed by observers as a model for inclusive security reform and a major step toward the country’s long-term goal of a diverse, professional, and gender-responsive armed force.
