(Congo Town, Monrovia, March 7, 2025) – The Gender Coordinator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, Grace W Biah, has called for greater gender equality and inclusivity in environmental governance as women of the EPA join others across the country in celebrating International Women’s Day 2025. The event is currently taking place at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.

Mrs. Biah, who also serves as the National Gender and Climate Change Focal Point to the UNFCCC, emphasized the critical role women play in shaping a sustainable future. She urged her colleagues to continue advocating for environmental protection while fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

“As we celebrate this day, let us take a moment to reflect on the invaluable contributions of women in our agency, the nation, and across the globe—especially in environmental management and governance. This day is not just a celebration but also a powerful reminder of the importance of gender equality and the vital role women play in shaping sustainable futures for our communities and our planet,” she said.

Mrs. Biah highlighted that women have always been at the forefront of environmental advocacy, innovation, and leadership, whether through grassroots movements, scientific research, policy-making, or community education. She encouraged EPA staff to embrace diversity, seek mentorship, become agents of change, and remain resilient in their pursuit of a cleaner and safer environment.

She also called on the agency to reaffirm its commitment to gender equality by supporting initiatives that uplift women in environmental fields and ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Her statement comes as women across Liberia join their counterparts around the world to celebrate International Women’s Day under the global theme “Accelerate Action” and the national theme “Accelerate Action to End Gender-Based Violence and Achieve Gender Equality in Liberia.”

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr on Wednesday, March 6, 2025, issued a proclamation declaring Saturday, March 8, 2025, as International Women’s Day, with the official observance set for Friday, March 7, 2025, as a Working Holiday across Liberia. The proclamation recognizes the struggles and achievements of women worldwide in securing equal rights and opportunities while highlighting the need for continuous efforts in achieving gender equality.

According to a release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Boakai directed the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, along with government agencies, civil society organizations, and NGOs, to organize programs that make the celebration meaningful.

Since the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of Resolution 32/142 in 1977, March 8 has been recognized globally as International Women’s Day. Liberia, in line with its commitment to gender equality, has ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

The government has pledged to continue ensuring equal opportunities for women in all sectors, including environmental protection, through its national development programs.

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