LIBERIA – In the heart of Belefanai town, Paramount Chief Lorpu M. Kollie of Zota Chiefdom stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for women and their communities. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women and fostering development has made her a respected figure in her district.
Chief Kollie, appointed by former Liberia President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2012, has long been a strong advocate for women’s rights and their role in societal progress. She emphasizes the importance of unity and support among women, particularly in the context of community development and empowerment. “We, as women, have a significant role to play in the development of our country. We must support each other, speak up for one another, and most importantly, stand together,” said Chief Kollie. “Women must not only be seen as caretakers but as leaders, as key players in creating a better future for our children, our communities, and ourselves.”
Reflecting on her own experiences, Chief Kollie recalls the hardships of war and the resilience it demanded. She stayed with her people, ensuring the safety and well-being of children and families. Her leadership during these trying times earned her the trust and admiration of her community. In her conversations with local media, she continued to stress the importance of standing together. “Women like development,” she asserts, highlighting their dedication to nurturing growth and progress. She believes that women, as leaders, bring unique qualities to governance, including care for their communities, children, and families.
As the Chieftainship elections approach, Chief Kollie called on women to recognize the power they hold in shaping the future of the country. “We need women in power to care for our communities. Women who will listen to the needs of their people and act with compassion and determination,” she said. “When women are in leadership positions, they care about the well-being of their families, their communities, and their nations.”
A key focus for Chief Kollie is ensuring that women are empowered to protect and own their properties. She stressed the need for women to own land and assets in a society where such rights are often undermined. Chief Kollie expressed a firm commitment to ensuring that women retain their rights to property, particularly in the face of challenges like corruption or unjust appropriation of land and assets. “I stand for the right of every person to own and protect their property, and I challenge anyone to say that I have ever taken anything that is not mine,” she affirmed.
Chief Kollie also emphasized the significant role women play in agriculture, particularly in rural areas. “We, the women in Zota, are involved in farming, and we request the government to help us with tools, seeds, and other essential resources to help us grow our crops,” she added. “Farming is one of the ways we can support our families, and with the right help, we can ensure a brighter future for our children.” She believes that with proper support from the government, women farmers can increase their productivity and help in the development of their communities.
Chief Kollie has consistently advocated for women to take active roles in governance and community development. She stresses the need for women to respect their values and character, standing firm against corruption and “crooked business.” Her vision includes women working together to improve their country, particularly as discussions around the upcoming chieftainship elections intensify.
Chief Kollie also pointed to the broader influence of women in leadership, citing the example of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state and former President of Liberia. Sirleaf’s tenure focused on rebuilding Liberia after years of civil war, promoting peace, and empowering women. Chief Kollie believes that women have the power to transform their communities and the nation. By standing together, respecting traditions, and advocating for development, women can create a brighter future for Liberia.
The performance of women in leadership roles, particularly in Liberia, has shown promising results. Women leaders often prioritize education, healthcare, and community welfare, and Chief Kollie is no exception. She continues to call for unity among women, urging them to stand together, speak with one voice, and work for the betterment of their communities. “We must continue to come together, stand by each other, and work towards a better tomorrow for our children and communities,” she said.
On a global scale, women hold an average of 35.5% of positions in local government bodies across 141 countries. However, representation varies widely, from as low as 1% to as high as 67%. https://localgov.unwomen.org/?form=MG0AV3&form=MG0AV3 This global data underscores the need for more women in leadership positions, reflecting the significant strides made in empowering women like Chief Kollie to influence positive change.
In conclusion, Chief Kollie reiterated her call to action for all women to unite in their quest for justice, equality, and community development. “Together, we can create a strong and prosperous future,” she concluded. “Let us support each other, and let us work to ensure that the next generation inherits a better world.”
This call for unity and support is a powerful reminder of the strength of women when they stand together, speak with one voice, and work for the betterment of their communities. As Chief Kollie continues her efforts to empower women and promote equality, her message remains clear: women must lead the way in building a better and stronger society.
