… As UNDP To Champion Additional Pilot Peace Hut Centers

(Monrovia, Liberia), – The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has announced plans to establish Young Women’s Training Centers in Bong and Lofa Counties to empower women street vendors and young entrepreneurs with practical vocational skills.

The initiative was disclosed during a high-level meeting between the Ministry and UNDP, where both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening women’s economic opportunities and advancing inclusive development. The Ministry will develop a concept note for the two pilot centers, while UNDP explores funding and technical support options. In addition, the Ministry has requested support for adolescent girls’ empowerment, including Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) and street padding initiatives, under a proposed multi-agency approach involving UNFPA and UNICEF.

Speaking at the meeting, Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, welcomed the UNDP delegation and commended the institution for its continued support to the Ministry’s work.  “We value UNDP’s partnership and technical support. Our goal is to strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to deliver impactful programs that empower women and girls while protecting the most vulnerable,” Minister Horace-Kollie said.

The meeting reinforces UNDP’s commitment to supporting the Ministry through technical assistance, including the recruitment of a high-level gender consultant and guidance from an institutional micro-assessment. This shows a focus on strategic leadership, improved coordination, and evidence-based planning within MGCSP.

It further demonstrates a strong institutional collaboration, a clear focus on women and girls’ empowerment, integration of peace and justice objectives, and alignment with national and international development agendas

She stressed that stronger collaboration is critical to achieving national gender equality goals and ensuring inclusive development for women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations.

UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Aliou Mamadou Dia thanked the Minister for convening the meeting and reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s gender and social protection agenda. “UNDP stands ready to work with the Ministry to strengthen systems, build capacity, and ensure that no one is left behind,” Mr. Dia stated.

During the engagement, Minister Horace-Kollie highlighted the importance of women’s participation in peacebuilding, highlighting the Peace Hut Program. In response, UNDP disclosed ongoing resource mobilization under the Peacebuilding Fund, linked to Transitional Justice, the proposed War and Economic Crimes Court, and the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda.

As part of this renewed partnership, both UNDP and MGCSP agreed to champion two pilot Peace Hut centers in Lofa and Bong Counties.

The planned Young Women’s Training Centers in Lofa and Bong highlight a tangible intervention to enhance vocational skills for street vendors and young women entrepreneurs.

By: Brandalyn K. Y. Wollarh
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