LIBERIA: More Calls against Sexual Exploitation, Abuse

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) in collaboration with several civil organizations has ended a week-long sensitization campaign on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) in the Borough of New Kru Town on the Bushrod Island, outside Monrovia. The week-long campaign, which was climaxed at the D. Tweh Sports Pitch on Saturday, May 19, 2012, was occasioned by live stage performances of drama, culture, comedy and music. Speaking at the occasion, the Governor of the Borough of New Kru Town, Mr. Richard S.N. Tobii, urged Liberians to stop every act of SEA, especially against girls and women.

According to the New Kru Town Governor, the future growth and development of Liberia relies on equal efforts of both men and women, noting, one group must not be “ill-treated”.

He noted that women are the foundations to every successful nation and that they must be allowed to play their role freely in society without any form of intimidation or sexual harassment.

“I want to say a special thank to UNMIL and all the cultural groups and musicians here for their role in sensitizing our people. This is a worthy cause that you have undertaken. As a nation, our growth and development relies on both men and women. Let not ill-treat our women and girls,” he pointed out.

“Once again, our women and girls must be allowed to play their role in society freely without any form of intimidation and harassment,” he added.

For his part, the Coordinator of Balawala International, Mr. Mac Sando, called on Liberian girls and women not to allow themselves to be used for little or nothing.

The Balawala International was one of the groups that were involved with the sensitization process.

Mr. Sando, who explained the effect of SEA to the Liberian society, underscored the need for respect of women in society.