Monrovia, Tuesday, November 28, 2023 – The international community has lavished praises on culture ambassador Juli Endee for her tireless efforts in the promotion of peace and development in the country.
They made specific mention of Ambassador Endee’s involvement in advocacy against gender-based violence and violence against women, including harmful traditional practices.
At the recent launch of 16 days of activism against gender based violence in Paynesville, the UN, European Union, The Government of Sweden, The World Bank, the US and ECOWAS were all in awe of the sustained effort by the Government of Liberia , the Traditional Council , Ambassador Endee and other stakeholders aimed at ending the practice of FGM in Liberia.
They believe, the involvement of Ambassador Endee has reinforced the desire of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders of Liberia to rally their members nationwide to effectuate the ban on FGM.
Alongside NACEL and the FGM taskforce, Ambassador Endee has consistently advocated with other stakeholders for the provision of alternative livelihood for practitioners who are relinquishing a long held traditional practice for the sake of development.
So far, the international partners have been supportive and responsive to these advocacies, with the setting up of heritage centers in four of Liberia’s 15 counties.
Three of the four have already been dedicated in Sonkay Town, Todee District, Montserrado County, Sinje, Grand Cape Mount County, and Gbanquoi, Nimba County. The other has already been completed in Lofa County awaiting dedication. Bong County ban and ritual have already been completed in Gbaota.
As for Gender Minister Williametta Saydee Tarr, she believes words cannot actually put into context the level of work and influence Ambassador Endee and other stakeholders have had in the advocacies for women’s rights over the years, working alongside the Ministry of Gender.
Madam Tarr said though she will be leaving office very soon, it is because of people like Ambassador Endee and others she is guaranteed that the advocacy will be sustained.
The launch of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence took place Saturday, November 25, on the International Day for the elimination of all forms of violence against women.
Saturday’s program brought together, several women groups and NGOs as well as all the major international partners.
