Bong County Senator Jewel Howard-Taylor has been awarded this year's 'Female African Leader Award'.

According to a release from Sen. Taylor's office, she was named winner of the African Female Leader of the Year 2012 in the African Leadership Awards.

The release said Senator Taylor won the award based on merit and in recognition of her outstanding contributions to nation building.

The former first lady's recognition was also based on her participation and advocacy on the floor of the Liberian Senate and her unflinching support to the less privileged in the Liberian society.

A previous winner of this prestigious award includes President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, President Joyce Banda of Malawi, and Vice President Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy of the Gambia, among others.

Senator Taylor is expected to receive the award on December 16, 2012 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Mr. Colee noted that Green Advocates is convinced about the need for strategies to address the challenges facing slum and squatter communities.