Monorovia, Nov. 24 (LINA) – Deputy Gender Minister Alice J. Howard has called on Liberians to be committed to protecting women and girls against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the country.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the official launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence, Howard said the government through the Ministry of Gender stands in solidarity with survivors of sexual and gender-based violence as well as mourn those who lost their lives as the result of this menace.
« We lift our voices in action to stand and end this epidemic everywhere in our society; it is now time to end silence and the culture of impunity surrounding gender-based violence against women, » she added.
She, however, noted that it is about time that sexual assault be given serious attention and not be swept under the carpet in order to ensure that those who perpetrate such inhumane and barbaric act are dealt with in keeping with law, stressing: « We must take action to break the culture of silence. »
For her part, UN Women Country Representative, Madam Marie-Goreth Nizigama pointed out that Liberia is at a crossroad in the fight against domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and, as such, the government should place attention in eradicating this national threat against women, girls and children.
Madam Nizigama urged citizens to assist the government in tackling this danger by reporting cases of SGBV in their respective locales, especially during and after the observance of the 16 Days of Activism, a program that seeks to educate and create awareness on eliminating SGBV.
She admonished officials of the government, women, youths, and civil society groups to join in the celebration of this national program which begins with an anti-SGBV walk on Monday to ensure a violence free society.
Also speaking at the press conference, the Chairlady of the Tribal Governors of Liberia, Madam Musu Thompson, called on her counterparts to join the fight against SGBV in the community, school and society.
