By: Edmund C. Gbarwee, Nimba D-9 TV, Public Health Reporter, ceo@onenimbahouse.com, Nimbad9tv2018@gmail.com, +231778070604

Margibi County, Liberia: – In the picturesque yet challenging landscape of Margibi County, Liberia, where vibrant waters are central to life, a quieter crisis looms one that intertwines climate change, waste management, and the welfare of women. The Marshall community, a hub of fishing activity, is grappling with the harsh realities of an evolving climate and environmental neglect. The Women Empowerment Forum Liberia (WEFL), with support from the African Climate Justice Movement and funded by the Global Fund for Women Champions, is spearheading efforts to address these intertwined issues.

Climate Change and Environmental Degradation: A Dire Situation

Marshall’s fishing-based economy, dependent on clean waters, is increasingly threatened by the dual impacts of climate change and pollution. Rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns exacerbate the community’s struggle, while improper waste management and plastic pollution further jeopardize the environment. The local water bodies, vital for both livelihood and sustenance, are becoming increasingly contaminated, leading to dire consequences for health and productivity.

The Struggles of Women: A Double Burden

In this context, women in Marshall face a compounded set of challenges. Traditional roles place women at the forefront of domestic and community responsibilities, making them especially vulnerable to environmental shifts. The lack of proper waste management has led to an accumulation of plastics and other pollutants, which not only affects fish stocks but also contaminates water sources used for drinking and sanitation.

Moreover, many women in rural Liberia struggle to afford basic sanitary products for menstrual hygiene. This lack of access to sanitary pads poses significant health risks and compounds the difficulties of managing menstrual hygiene in an environment already strained by climate change and pollution.

WEFL’s Impactful Intervention

In response to these challenges, WEFL has undertaken a series of educational and outreach initiatives in Marshall, coupled with free donations of sanitary pads aimed at increasing awareness about climate change and its specific impacts on women. Supported by the African Climate Justice Movement and the Global Fund for Women Champions, WEFL’s program focuses on:

• Educational Workshops: Providing training sessions to help the community understand the effects of climate change, particularly on their daily lives and environmental health. These workshops address harmful practices, promote sustainable alternatives, and emphasize the role of women as change agents.
• Waste Management Initiatives: Educating community members on proper waste disposal and the benefits of reducing plastic use. WEFL’s initiatives aim to foster better waste management practices, thereby reducing pollution and its adverse effects on water bodies.
• Menstrual Health Support: Addressing the critical issue of menstrual hygiene by advocating for better access to sanitary products and providing practical solutions for managing menstrual health in resource-limited settings.

Voices from the Field: Madame Florence Kabba’s Perspective

After participating in WEFL’s session, Madame Florence Kabba, a key community leader in Marshall, expressed profound gratitude.

 “We never knew that many of our practices were harmful,” she remarked.

“This training has been enlightening, and we are now better equipped to protect our environment and advocate for our needs.”

Madame Kabba highlighted the pervasive issue of waste and plastic pollution in Marshall, which worsens during rainy seasons when water overflows and exacerbates sanitation problems. She called on the Global Fund for Women Champions to provide additional funding to extend WEFL’s outreach to more communities across Liberia.

“We need more support to educate our people about climate change and waste management,” she said.

“We are committed to being ambassadors for this cause and urge our community members to join us in this vital fight.”

The urgent need for comprehensive climate action and community support is evident. By addressing both environmental and gender-specific challenges, WEFL and its partners are paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for women in Margibi County. However, the path forward requires continued support, collaboration, and funding to amplify these efforts across Liberia.

The Marshall community’s resilience and willingness to adapt provide hope. With sustained efforts and increased awareness, the intertwined issues of climate change, pollution, and women’s health can be effectively tackled, leading to a more robust and empowered community ready to face the future.

In a world increasingly affected by climate change, the intersection of environmental health and gender equality must not be overlooked. The work of WEFL and its partners exemplifies a crucial model for integrating climate action with community empowerment, fostering a future where women and their environments can thrive together.