By Ben T.C. Brooks
River Gee County | Oct. 31, 2025 | Medical Liberia, in collaboration with Amuanu for Development, joined the global celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child with an inspiring empowerment program held this week in Fish Town, River Gee County.
Established by the United Nations in 2011, the International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to recognize the rights of girls and raise awareness about the challenges they face worldwide.
The observance seeks to address critical issues such as limited access to education, early marriage, and gender-based violence, while advocating for greater opportunities for girls to realize their full potential.
This year’s commemoration in River Gee County focused on education, empowerment, and protection, underscoring the vital role of girls in shaping Liberia’s future.
The event featured motivational speeches, cultural performances, and awareness activities designed to amplify girls’ voices and promote gender equality across communities.
Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Mercy Nimely emphasized the importance of valuing girls as equal partners in national development.
She called for continuous advocacy and stronger community engagement to eliminate harmful traditional practices and gender stereotypes that hinder progress.
“When we educate and empower girls, we empower entire communities,” Ms. Nimely said. “Let us continue to promote respect, equality, and protection for every girl child across Liberia.”
Also speaking at the ceremony, Madam Etta Quittee George, Coordinator of Medical Liberia’s River Gee Chapter, reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding women and girls from all forms of abuse and exploitation.
She appealed to law enforcement agencies to enforce existing laws and ensure accountability for perpetrators of gender-based violence.
“Ending violence against girls requires collective action,” Madam George stated. “Medical Liberia remains dedicated to working with local authorities and partners to create safer spaces for our daughters and sisters.”
In her remarks, Madam Vinton James, Executive Director of Amuanu for Development, expressed gratitude to participants, stakeholders, and partners for their support. She highlighted the transformative power of education in empowering girls and fostering national growth.
“Every girl deserves the chance to learn, dream, and lead,” she noted. “By investing in girls’ education, we are investing in Liberia’s future.”
Representing the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MOGCSP), Sherinna Brooks, River Gee County Coordinator, commended Medical Liberia and its partners for organizing the event.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with local actors in advancing the protection and empowerment of women and children across the county.
Brooks encouraged young girls to remain focused on their studies and resist peer pressure that could lead to early pregnancies and child marriage.
“Your future comes first,” she urged. “Stay in school, stay focused, and never allow anyone or anything to derail your dreams.”
The event concluded with vibrant cultural performances, poetry recitals, and a symbolic pledge by students and community members to advocate for girls’ rights and promote inclusivity and equality.
The celebration brought together students, educators, traditional and local leaders, government officials, and civil society representatives, all united in their shared commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and well-being of girls throughout Liberia.
