By Anthony Q. Jiffan, Jr
MONROVIA – On the occasion marking the 60th birth anniversary of Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Mrs. Fatima Maada Bio has called on fellow women to support one another in their quest for a better Africa where women can be heard across the decision-making table.
“We African women must be able to support each other in our quest to transform the continent. It doesn’t have to be you at all cost; we can together rally for a better Africa where women can be heard in decision-making processes” Madam Maada Bio asserted.
According to the Sierra Leonean first lady, if African women must get at the top of leadership and continental decision making, it is important that they rally support for one of their own, not because they want to take over Africa, but to ensure that their voices are heard.
Madam Maada Bio used the occasion to thank Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor for her efforts in pushing women issues across the African continent and the world at large.
“Thank you, Madam Vice President, Jewel Howard Taylor for your effort in supporting the issues of women across Africa and the world. You are doing extremely well and I say to you that we will support you through this journey to your destiny; and you shall certainly get there,” Mrs. Maada Bio averred.
Speaking at the launch of a national initiative, “In Conversation with Chief Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor” organized by a group of young Liberians under the banner “Youth for Change”, and in observance of VP Taylor 60th birthday, Madam Fatima Maada Bio expressed joy over her association with the Liberian Vice President.
“I had never imagined that we were going to sit on the same row, not to mention that we would have shared the same platform. I am grateful for this gathering,” the Sierra Leonean first lady added.
For her part, Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor indicated that service is not about the one who is serving, but the people that one serves, noting that when a person enters into service, he or she should never think of becoming popular or being great, but to help in addressing the needs of the people through the grace and mercy of God.
The Liberian first female Vice President used the occasion marking the launch of the “In Conversation with Chief Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor” and activities in celebration of her 60th birthday to call on women and young people to stand up for what is best in the interest of their society.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo said there are many outstanding Men and Women around Africa, but VP Taylor’s contribution remains remarkable to the African continent.
Professor Osinbajo prayed for God’s blessings upon Madam Jewel Howard Taylor as she celebrated her 60th birthday. “As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I pray that God will bless you in every endeavor and increase your wisdom and understanding”.
The program was characterized by a variety of performances, speeches as well as panel discussions, and as well graced by several dignitaries from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, among others.
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