MONROVIA – Liberia’s national observance of International Women’s Day continues to serve as a platform not only for celebrating women’s achievements but also for highlighting institutions that are expanding opportunities for women across various sectors of national life. This year’s commemoration saw the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA) make its debut participation in the country’s official celebration, marking a symbolic step toward greater gender inclusion within Liberia’s growing renewable energy sector. As THE ANALYST reports, for many observers, the presence of women from the agency reflected broader efforts to integrate women into fields historically dominated by men while strengthening their role in rural development initiatives driven by sustainable energy access.
Women of the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA) have participated for the first time in Liberia’s national celebration of International Women’s Day, joining hundreds of women from government institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners in commemorating the global observance dedicated to promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality.
The event, held in Monrovia under the theme “Give to Gain: Support Women for National Development,” brought together women from across the country to celebrate achievements made in advancing women’s rights while renewing commitments to support women and girls in every sector of society.
The celebration served as a national platform for reflecting on progress made in promoting gender equality and strengthening the role of women in Liberia’s development agenda.
Delivering the keynote address at the event, First Lady Kartumu Yarta Boakai emphasized the importance of empowering women as a fundamental pathway to sustainable national development.
The First Lady highlighted the need for greater investment in women’s education, economic empowerment, and leadership opportunities.
According to her, strengthening women’s participation across these areas produces far-reaching benefits for families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
“When women are supported, families, communities, and the nation benefit,” she said.
The First Lady also called for the adoption of stronger gender-responsive policies aimed at promoting equality and protecting the rights of women and girls.
She urged institutions, government agencies, and development partners to collaborate more closely in addressing barriers that limit women’s participation in decision-making processes and economic activities.
According to her, removing such obstacles is essential for ensuring that women play a full role in shaping Liberia’s future.
For the women of the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency, the celebration represented a historic moment for the institution.
Officials described the agency’s participation as both inspiring and symbolic of its growing commitment to gender inclusion within the renewable energy sector.
Speaking during the event, RREA Communication and Visibility Officer Oretha Bundoo Seh described the occasion as a proud milestone for women working within the agency.
“Participating in the International Women’s Day celebration for the first time is a proud moment for the women of RREA,” she said.
According to Seh, the participation underscores the agency’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment while contributing to national development through the expansion of renewable energy access in rural communities.
“It demonstrates our commitment to supporting women’s empowerment while contributing to sustainable development through energy access in rural communities,” she noted.
She added that women have a significant role to play in shaping Liberia’s energy future.
“Women have an important role to play in the energy sector,” Seh said.
“Our involvement in initiatives like this reminds us that women can lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s development.”
The national celebration also included the recognition of several prominent Liberian women who have made outstanding contributions to advancing the welfare and empowerment of women and girls.
Among those honored was Leymah Gbowee, founder of the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa, who received recognition for her continued advocacy for women’s leadership and peacebuilding both in Liberia and internationally.
Also recognized was Facia Boyenoh Harris, founder of the Paramount Young Women Initiative, for her work in combating gender-based violence and empowering young women.
In addition, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, was honored for her leadership and advocacy promoting the participation of women in governance and diplomacy.
Organizers said the recognition of these women highlights the significant contributions Liberian women continue to make in promoting peace, justice, and development across the country.
Observers noted that the participation of RREA women in this year’s celebration reflects the agency’s broader commitment to gender inclusion within Liberia’s renewable energy sector.
The renewable energy sector, particularly in rural communities, has increasingly been recognized as an important driver of sustainable development.
Access to reliable and sustainable energy, experts say, can transform rural livelihoods by improving economic opportunities, enhancing educational outcomes, and strengthening healthcare services.
Officials say the growing involvement of women within the sector will play an important role in ensuring that energy initiatives benefit communities equitably.
The women of the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency concluded the celebration by reaffirming their commitment to advancing opportunities that empower women and girls.
They also pledged to continue supporting initiatives that promote inclusive development and expand sustainable energy access across Liberia.
According to participants, their presence at the International Women’s Day celebration symbolizes the agency’s determination to strengthen the role of women within Liberia’s renewable energy landscape while contributing to the country’s broader development goals.