By: Edmund C. Gbarwee, Nimba D-9 TV Public Health Reporter, ceo@onenimbahouse.com nimbad9tv2018@gmail.com +231886693625
Monrovia, Liberia: – The 2026 celebration of International Women’s Day, marking the 115th anniversary of the global observance under the theme “Give to Gain,” took on a deeply meaningful dimension in Liberia when women from across all five administrative areas of Nimba County Electoral District #9 gathered to honor Africa’s first elected female president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
The tribute led by Representative Taa Z. Wongbe of Nimba County Electoral District 9, who also serves as a member of the ECOWAS Parliament. The delegation of women traveled from across the district to recognize Madam Sirleaf’s historic leadership and to celebrate her continued influence as a symbol of women’s empowerment, leadership, and resilience across Liberia, Africa and the World at large.
Rep. Wongbe Applauds Sirleaf’s Legacy and Commitment to Women
During the occasion, Rep. Wongbe expressed profound appreciation for the enduring legacy of Madam Sirleaf, noting that her leadership inspired many Liberians in the diaspora to return home and contribute to national development.
He recalled that during Sirleaf’s presidency, former U.S. Ambassador to Liberia Linda Thomas‑Greenfield consistently encouraged Liberians abroad to come back and help rebuild their country.
According to Rep. Wongbe, that message deeply resonated with him.
“I was among those encouraged to return to Liberia,” he said. “When I came back, I began contributing through the private sector by founding The Khana Group-TKG before later being elected to represent the people of District 9. This is my first government position, and I remain committed to serving with integrity and vision.”
Rep. Wongbe highlighted that Sirleaf’s initiatives to empower women, particularly the construction of market halls across the country, served as inspiration for his own development agenda.
“Your support for our mothers through the building of market halls across Liberia inspired me greatly,” he told the former president. “Immediately after my election, I began providing microloans to women in the district to help strengthen their businesses and economic independence.”
Development Priorities for Liberia’s Largest Electoral District
Rep. Wongbe explained that Nimba District 9, is the largest electoral district in Liberia by land area, is home to diverse ethnic communities including the Mano, Gio, and Gbi peoples.
To better understand the needs of residents, his office conducted an extensive survey across the district, identifying six key development priorities:
- Infrastructure
- Education
- Women’s empowerment
- Health
- Agriculture
- Leadership development
He also reflected on the guidance he received from the late former lawmaker Johnson N. Gwaikolo, whom he succeeded.
“Upon assuming office, I presented my written development plan to the late Representative Gwaikolo, and he gave us his blessing,” Wongbe noted. “Though he has passed, his wife, Madam Gifty Gwaikolo, whom I now regard as my mother, continues to offer invaluable guidance.”
The representative added that the women who accompanied him to the ceremony brought agricultural produce and livestock as symbolic gifts to express appreciation for Sirleaf’s leadership.
Women of District 9 Pay Tribute
Speaking on behalf of the women of District 9, Olivia Firstlady Dahn delivered a powerful message recognizing Sirleaf’s historic role in advancing women’s leadership.
“Today, as the world celebrates women and their contributions, we gather not only to celebrate womanhood but also to honor a remarkable leader whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Liberian women,” she said.
Dahn emphasized that Sirleaf’s presidency broke long-standing barriers and opened new opportunities for women and girls across Liberia.
“Your leadership demonstrated vision, courage, and determination,” she said. “Because of your example, many women today believe more strongly in their voices, their abilities, and their role in shaping the future of our nation.”
She also referenced Sirleaf’s forward-looking proposal made during her 2012 State of the Nation Address to consider Zekepa as a potential capital city for Liberia, a proposal aimed at encouraging balanced national development.
“For many women and young girls, your journey proved that women can lead with wisdom, strength, and compassion,” she added. “Your legacy will continue to guide us as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive, and progressive Liberia.”
Sirleaf Praises Leadership of Rep. Wongbe
In her response, Madam Sirleaf expressed gratitude to Rep. Wongbe and the women of District 9 for the recognition. She praised the representative’s leadership and particularly commended the detailed development plan he prepared for the district.
“Your written plan for the women of Nimba District 9 is thoughtful, practical, and inspiring,” Sirleaf noted. “It is an example other lawmakers should follow.”
The former president also acknowledged the late Rep. Johnson N. Gwaikolo for his role in advocating for the proposal to designate Zekepa as Liberia’s potential capital city, noting that a survey for the project was conducted during her administration.
A Symbolic Gesture of Appreciation
As part of the ceremony, the women of District 9 honored Sirleaf in traditional fashion by adorning her with garments and presented gifts that included cattle and locally produced food items symbols of gratitude for her years of service to Liberia and boldly naming Zekepa as the Proposed Capital City of Liberia.
The celebration stood as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, whose historic presidency continues to inspire women leaders and community advocates across Liberia and beyond.
On a day dedicated globally to recognizing women’s achievements, the women of Nimba County District 9 reaffirmed a message that echoed throughout the gathering: when women are empowered, communities grow stronger and nations move forward.
