Monica Geingos Advocates for Women’s Political Representation at EJS Centre Anniversary

Former First Lady Monica Geingos highlighted the importance of women’s political representation during the fifth anniversary celebration of the EJS Centre in Liberia. The event featured discussions on the urgent need for young women’s involvement in both politics and economics, and also included the launch of Musiehjah, an initiative honoring women’s contributions to societal change.

Monica Geingos, former First Lady of Namibia and chairperson of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Centre for Women and Development (EJS Centre), emphasized the necessity for enhanced political representation of women during a recent visit to Monrovia, Liberia. The visit coincided with the fifth anniversary celebrations of the EJS Centre, attended by dignitaries such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Joseph Boakai, and Sahle-Work Zewde. The festivities commenced with the GapZero Manifesto focused on Gender Equality in Public Leadership on March 7, culminating in the official anniversary on International Women’s Day, March 8.

In her speech, Geingos addressed the critical relationship between historical context and the pursuit of equality, stating that institutions, which are essential for liberty, are driven by individuals. She expressed concern that the youth in her audience are increasingly impatient regarding socio-political issues. “They are not interested in the past; they are upset about the present. The same applies to gender equality. Young women are fed up with older women who they feel conform too easily,” she remarked.

Geingos highlighted the paramount importance of women’s involvement in politics and the economy. She noted, “Politics decides who gets what, and when. Political representation of women is key. At the same time we recognize that political freedom is meaningless without economic freedom.” Furthermore, she advocated for women’s economic empowerment to support political campaigns, pointing out the need for both socioeconomic and political representation.

The event also featured the launch of Musiehjah, the African Women’s House, a recognition of the women’s contributions toward societal change on the continent. Johnson Sirleaf affirmed the goal of electing five women presidents in Africa in the forthcoming decade, stating, “With Namibia’s progress, we are about to only need three.” The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of commitment to bridging the leadership gap and promoting gender equality.

Monica Geingos’ visit to Liberia for the EJS Centre’s fifth anniversary underscored the urgency of enhancing women’s political representation and economic empowerment. By connecting historical struggles to current challenges, she called for urgent action to ensure the inclusion of women in both politics and the economy. The launch of initiatives like Musiehjah exemplifies the dedication needed to advance women’s rights and societal change across Africa.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na