Strengthening Support for Vulnerable Communities - A Collaborative Effort by FAO and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection

On Friday, June 28, 2024, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Representative in Liberia Bintia Stephen Tchicaya met Gender, Children and Social Protection Minister Gbeme Horace in Monrovia to discuss critical initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable communities in the country.

The meeting took place at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town and was attended by key individuals including Thomcelia M. Duoe, National Epidemiologist of FAO-ECTAD, and James Mike Fayiah-David, Chief of Staff at the Office of the Minister.

During the meeting, FAOR Tchicaya shared some exciting developments, including the successful completion of the Social Protection Strategy, funded by the World Bank. This strategy aims to provide support to vulnerable groups, such as individuals with Down Syndrome, Albinism, and street children. The FAO has committed a substantial amount towards the implementation of this strategy, with a focus on incorporating nutrition aspects.

Furthermore, the FAO representative discussed plans for the upcoming Rural Women's Celebration, scheduled for October 15, 2024. The celebration aims to highlight the achievements and challenges faced by rural women in Liberia. The event will feature various activities, including showcasing the work of women farmers and fishing communities, a dinner gala to share experiences and mobilize funds, and a green school activity to educate children about climate-smart farming and nutrition.

Minister Gbeme Horace, having recently conducted a tour of several counties, expressed her concerns regarding the limited support from the government and partners for local structures that aim to empower women. She emphasized the need to highlight the efforts of women champions involved in agriculture, particularly in agriculture stronghold counties such as Lofa, Nimba, and Bong.

The Minister also advocated for the inclusion of street children as beneficiaries under the Social Protection Strategy. She proposed the implementation of an Alternative Livelihood Program that would support street children through their caregivers.

Additionally, Minister Horace highlighted the vulnerable situation of the Albino community, who face numerous challenges in accessing healthcare, nutrition, security, and education. She mentioned a home in Bentol that supports abandoned children and is currently building a structure to host a school and clinic. The Minister called for increased support and resources to improve the lives of individuals with Albinism.

The Minister also expressed her concerns for children with Down Syndrome, stressing the importance of addressing their nutritional needs. She said there is a need to mobilize resources to alleviate the serious issue of poor nutrition affecting these children.

As a result of the meeting, several action points were agreed upon. The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection will establish a working group to plan and organize the Rural Women's Day Celebration, with the Chief of Staff creating a chatroom to facilitate discussions among government officials and partners. Additionally, a Technical Working Group will be formed to address issues related to the Social Protection Strategy.

This productive meeting between Minister Gbeme Horace and Madam Bintia Stephen Tchicaya marks a significant step towards advancing gender equality, protecting vulnerable groups, and empowering rural women in Liberia. The commitment and collaboration between the Ministry and the FAO are expected to yield positive outcomes for the country's social development.