The Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP) has successfully concluded a two-day Digital Literacy Skills and Safety Workshop designed to empower female politicians in Liberia with practical knowledge to effectively and safely use digital platforms for political engagement and visibility.
The workshop, held in Monrovia, brought together 25 female leaders from across Liberia’s political spectrum. The initiative was organized by CEMESP in partnership with the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), with funding support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Accra Ghana.
In his opening remarks, CEMESP Executive Director, Malcolm W. Joseph, underscored the importance of building women’s capacity to harness digital technologies for advocacy and political participation.
“This training is part of CEMESP’s ongoing commitment to ensure that women leaders have the skills and confidence to fully participate in digital spaces — not only as users but as influential voices shaping political discourse,” Joseph stated.
Key sessions were facilitated by seasoned trainers and digital rights advocates. Lisa Daisy president of the Female Journalists of Liberia delivered a presentation on “Digital Rights, Women’s Rights Online and Gendered Disinformation,” emphasizing the threat of online gender-based violence and its impact on women’s political participation.
“Online spaces can either empower or silence women. The key is equipping them with the knowledge to navigate and resist the toxicity of gendered disinformation,” Daisy noted.
Laureen Yeakula, a Digital security Specialist from MTN Liberia led participants through sessions on “Introduction to Social Media” and “Digital Security and Online Privacy for Female Politicians.” She highlighted the need for women to strategically use digital tools for communication and to prioritize online safety.
“Social media is a powerful political tool. The more you understand how to use it effectively and safely, the more control you have over your narrative,” Yeakula advised.
Antoinette Sendolo, Program Officer/ Women’s Economic Empowerment at Kavinna Till Kavinna presented on “Using Digital Tools for Engagement and Mobilization,” demonstrating how female politicians can leverage digital platforms to connect with constituents, build campaign visibility, and promote civic participation.
She emphasized the importance of digital storytelling, content planning, and online campaign strategies.
“Visibility is power. When women are seen and heard online, they change perceptions and inspire others to participate in politics,” Sendolo said.
The final session, facilitated by Tennen Darlieh Tehoungue focused on “Identifying and Dealing with Online Abuses Against Women.” Madam Tehoungue encouraged participants to report and document cases of online harassment, emphasizing that accountability is essential for safer digital spaces.
“Silence emboldens abusers. Reporting, documenting, and seeking support are key steps in reclaiming your digital space,” she urged.
At the close of the workshop, participants expressed gratitude to CEMESP for the initiative and pledged to use their newfound digital skills to enhance their political engagement, advocacy, and community outreach.
The initiative aligns with Goal 5.B of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which calls for enhancing the use of technology to promote women’s empowerment and supports Liberia’s commitment to gender equality under CEDAW and other international conventions.
CEMESP reaffirmed its commitment to advancing digital inclusion and promoting the safe participation of women in online and offline democratic processes.
