Clay Ashland — As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen women's empowerment in Liberia, the Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), in partnership with the Initiative for Sustainable Rights, Education and Development Liberia (INSURED), has successfully distributed the second phase of livelihood materials to beneficiaries across five communities in Lower Montserrado County under the Liberia Fights FGM Project.
The distribution, which took place in Central Clay Ashland, District #17, is part of a broader initiative being implemented in six counties. The project aims to economically empower women while discouraging harmful traditional practices, including female genital mutilation (FGM), and supporting survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Upon arrival, the WONGOSOL team was warmly received by representatives of INSURED Liberia and community beneficiaries. Speaking during the program, Program Officer Justina F.K. Blackie expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that the materials funded by the UN Trust Fund will support women engaged in alternative livelihoods, particularly those affected by gender-based violence and harmful practices.
"These items will be distributed across five communities, including Bensonville and other high-risk areas, to empower women to sustain themselves and move away from harmful practices," she said, assuring that the materials would be used for their intended purpose.
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Also speaking, the Executive Director of INSURED Liberia, Minikon Jaja, thanked WONGOSOL and its partners for their continued support. She highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the two organizations in advancing women's empowerment.
"We are grateful for this partnership and the support from the UN Trust Fund. These materials will be used effectively to uplift women and girls in our communities," she stated.
Items distributed include caustic soda, gloves, nose masks, protective goggles, and materials for baking and soap production essential tools aimed at strengthening small-scale businesses among beneficiaries.
Receiving the items on behalf of the women, Anita K. Kulloe, Chairlady of the Pastry Group, called on donors to provide additional technical support, particularly in skills training.
"We appreciate these materials, but we also need instructors to help us improve our skills in baking and other trades so we can grow our businesses," she appealed.
Beneficiaries shared testimonies of the project's positive impact on their lives. Lovetta Bennah, a resident of the Tukwabe community, explained how the initiative has improved household income and reduced dependency.
"Through soap-making and baking, we can now support our families, pay school fees, and contribute financially at home. This has changed how we live and relate within our households," she said.
Speaking on behalf of WONGOSOL, staff member Tete Weaver encouraged beneficiaries to remain committed and make effective use of the resources provided.
"Continue working hard and supporting yourselves. Economic empowerment gives you confidence and respect within your homes and communities," she urged.
According to WONGOSOL, over 350 women including traditional practitioners, single mothers, and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence are benefiting from the project across Montserrado, Bong, Bomi, Gbarpolu, Grand Cape Mount, and Margibi counties.
Launched in 2023, with its economic empowerment component introduced in October 2025, the Liberia Fights FGM Project is currently being implemented in 44 communities, with funding support from the UN Trust Fund.
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WEPS Project Staff Hawa Fuller noted that the initiative is designed to promote economic independence and improve the living standards of women, ultimately contributing to the eradication of harmful traditional practices.
The distribution marks another significant step toward strengthening women's resilience and fostering sustainable livelihoods across rural Liberia.
WONGOSOL serves as a coordinating body for women's NGOs across Liberia, with over 250 member organizations in all 15 political subdivisions. The organization works to strengthen the capacity of women through empowerment initiatives and advocates for the rights of women, girls, and other marginalized groups both within and beyond Liberia.
