The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has convened a major Gender and Social Inclusion Unit (GSIU) Sector Coordination Meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration among government institutions and advancing gender mainstreaming across Liberia’s public sector.
The meeting brought together government officials, members of Gender and Social Inclusion Units (GSIUs), and key development stakeholders to assess progress, share experiences, and align strategies for more effective implementation of gender-responsive policies and programs.
Speaking on behalf of Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Deputy Minister for Research, Policy and Planning, Hon. Curtis V. Dorley, emphasized the importance of the gathering in strengthening coordination and sustaining progress in gender equality and social inclusion efforts nationwide.
He described the forum as a critical platform for fostering collaboration among institutions and ensuring more effective delivery of development outcomes within the gender sector.
Minister Dorley highlighted that the establishment of GSIUs across Ministries, Agencies, and Commissions was a key outcome of the Revised National Gender Policy (2018–2022).
He noted that the shift from isolated gender focal persons to structured institutional units has significantly improved continuity, coordination, and effectiveness in addressing gender-related issues.
According to him, the meeting is also intended to promote deeper engagement on gender equality, strengthen institutional capacity, and ensure better alignment in the implementation of gender-focused programs across government.
Providing an update on progress, he disclosed that 42 GSIUs are currently active across various sectors, while nine institutions are receiving support in Gender Responsive Planning and Budgeting. He described these achievements as evidence of growing institutional commitment to inclusive development.
“This demonstrates that inclusive development is not optional; it is essential,” he stressed.
The Deputy Minister further urged institutions to intensify efforts in identifying gender gaps, promoting inclusive workplace practices, strengthening leadership participation, and ensuring that gender considerations are fully integrated into all policies and programs.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting all GSIUs, noting that sustained collaboration among stakeholders is essential to building effective and responsive public institutions.
“Together, we can build institutions that are effective, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all Liberians,” he concluded.
The coordination meeting is expected to further strengthen inter-agency collaboration and reinforce government’s broader commitment to gender equality and social inclusion as key drivers of sustainable national development.
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