By Moses M. Tokpah
editor@news.throngtalk.com
0777130958 / 0886476114
Margibi County Senator, James Emmanuel Nuquay has emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and unity in leadership, acknowledging the significant strides women have made in Liberian politics while urging further collective action.
He made the assertion at program marking the induction program of the leadership of the Margibi Women Alliance for Peace & Development (MARWAPD) held at the Philadelphia Central Church in Kakata over the weekend.
Those Inducted include Alice Toniah Baysah president, Florence B.S. Nepay vice president for administration, Dorothy Q. Barcolleh vice president for operations, Sara K. Dahn general secretary, Wedor Salley Davis financial secretary, Yanga King welfare committee chair, Ma Bonah Kanneh treasurer, and Davidetta Waka vice president for technical services amongst others.
Central to Nuquay’s message was the theme of women’s empowerment, which he articulated through the subject, “Unleashing Your Potential and Building Consensus for Future Leadership Roles.”
He highlighted the historical context of gender equality in Liberia, noting that women have faced significant barriers to leadership roles.
However, he celebrated the achievements of former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and former Vice President Jewel-Howard Taylor, whose successes he added opened doors for women in politics.
Nuquay pointed to the increasing representation of women in the National Legislature and various governmental positions as evidence of progress, urging the women in attendance to continue advocating for equal opportunities.
“You can and will do more in promoting yourselves and proffering a collective agenda to make your case for women participation and inclusion in national leadership roles,” he said.
The Senator posed critical questions to the audience, challenging them to consider their readiness to unite for the cause of women’s empowerment and to support each other in the pursuit of leadership roles.
He emphasized the importance of solidarity, stating, “Whenever you call upon me or knock at my door, I will always show up.” Nuquay also addressed the challenges that lay ahead, acknowledging that leadership is not without its difficulties.
He encouraged the new leaders to embrace their roles with courage and responsibility, emphasizing the need for a participatory leadership style that values every voice, even dissenting opinions.
“You cannot succeed without their involvement or participation in the process,” he reminded the leadership. In closing, Nuquay inspired the women to take action, stating that true change requires effort, not just words.
“As women leaders, you have to make sure that you engage in advocacies for more empowerment programs. Change does not come automatically,” he cautioned.
He reiterated the importance of unity among women, declaring, “Always remember that unity is power!”
Earlier in his remarks Nuquay expressed gratitude to the MARWAPD leadership for the invitation and commending their efforts in fostering peace and development within the county.
He recognized the presence of distinguished guests, including government officials, civil society leaders, and members of the press, creating an atmosphere of solidarity and shared purpose.
“I feel deeply honored and inspired to share my experience with you, having walked this road of leadership for many years now,” Nuquay said.
He acknowledged the unwavering support he has received from the women of Margibi, stating, “You have always shown your love and support for me,” which he credited as a driving force behind his commitment to serve the county diligently.
The induction program served as a Launchpad for the newly elected leaders of MARWAPD, who are now charged with the mission of empowering women throughout Margibi County and beyond.
Senator Nuquay’s address did not only celebrate the achievements of women in leadership but also set a hopeful tone for the future, emphasizing that together, they can create a more equitable and peaceful society.
As the event concluded, attendees left inspired and ready to embrace the challenges of leadership, armed with the knowledge that their voices and actions are pivotal in shaping a brighter future for all women in Liberia.
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