BUCHANAN, Grand Bassa County – The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, in partnership with development stakeholders, has renewed calls for an end to child marriage in Liberia, urging greater investment in the rights, education, and empowerment of girls across the country.
The appeal was made during the commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child 2026 in Grand Bassa County, held under the theme: “Ending Child Marriage in Liberia: Investing in Her Rights and Potential.”
The event brought together government officials, partner organizations, educators, and schoolgirls from across the county to raise awareness about the harmful effects of child marriage and promote efforts aimed at protecting and empowering young girls.
Delivering the keynote address, Mrs. Mercy Johnny, Executive Director of Children Rescue Africa in Grand Bassa County, called on parents, community leaders, policymakers, and development partners to intensify efforts to safeguard girls from child marriage, sexual abuse, violence, discrimination, and other forms of exploitation.
She stressed that every girl deserves the opportunity to access quality education, healthcare, protection, and equal opportunities regardless of her social or economic background.
“Child marriage is not a solution to poverty, nor should any girl’s future be decided through force, fear, or harmful social expectations,” Mrs. Johnny said.
She noted that child marriage continues to undermine the rights and aspirations of many girls, often depriving them of education and exposing them to health and social risks that can have lifelong consequences.
Mrs. Johnny urged stakeholders at all levels to take concrete actions that will create a safe and supportive environment for girls to grow, learn, and reach their full potential.
She also reaffirmed the commitment of Children Rescue Africa to championing the rights, safety, and empowerment of girls through advocacy, community engagement, and initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for young women and girls.
The commemoration forms part of ongoing national and global efforts to advance gender equality and promote the well-being of girls. Participants used the occasion to underscore the importance of collective action in eliminating harmful cultural practices and ensuring that every girl can enjoy her rights and contribute meaningfully to society.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in the fight against child marriage and support initiatives that empower Liberia’s next generation of women leaders.
