As part of Liberia’s 178th Independence Day festivities, the Office of the First Lady joined the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to celebrate Children’s Socialization Day—a day dedicated to recognizing the nation’s youngest citizens and reaffirming commitments to their welfare and development.
Though unable to attend in person due to ongoing national engagements, First Lady Madam Kartumu Yarta Boakai, through her Senior Advisor and Head of Projects, (Dr. Adam M. Kyne), extended a heartfelt message to the children and stakeholders gathered for the occasion. Dr. Kyne’s message emphasized the profound importance of children in shaping Liberia’s future and underscored the nation’s collective duty to safeguard and empower every young life.
“Children are not only our joy—they are our justice,” the First Lady’s message read. “How we treat them today will echo in the kind of Liberia we live in tomorrow.”
Held under the auspices of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Children’s Socialization Day event brought together government officials, development partners, caregivers, and children from across various communities. The celebration featured cultural performances, recreational activities, and discussions centered on children’s rights, welfare, and aspirations.
Dr. Kyne emphasized that the day was more than a symbolic gathering. “This Children’s Socialization Day is beyond a celebration—it is a reminder of our sacred duty to create a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for every child in Liberia,” she said.
The First Lady’s message however, reaffirmed her dedication to championing child protection and education across all regions of the country, regardless of social or economic background. “Her Excellency remains deeply committed to ensuring that every girl and every boy, from city streets to rural villages, feels seen, valued, and protected,” Dr. Kyne stated.
Addressing the Ministry of Gender directly, Dr. Kyne extended his appreciation for their continued leadership and commitment to child-centered policies and initiatives. “Thank you for leading with heart and purpose,” her message read.
To the children in attendance, he further offered words of encouragement and inspiration. “Keep dreaming, keep playing, keep believing. Liberia belongs to you,” he said, reminding them that their future potential is limitless and that they are at the heart of national progress.
The event formed a central part of the broader Independence Day celebrations, which this year have placed significant focus on inclusivity, youth empowerment, and national unity. Children’s Socialization Day stands out as a moment where the spotlight is turned on the youngest generation—not just in festivity, but in reflection on the kind of society Liberia seeks to build.
On behalf of Madam Boakai, the day ended with a joyful Independence Day greeting to all Liberian children: “Happy Independence Day—and may your future shine brighter than our proudest past.”
As Liberia continues to chart its post-independence course, the First Lady’s message served as a timely reminder that the nation’s most important investment is in its children—a generation that holds the promise of a more just, compassionate, and prosperous Liberia.
Children’s Party Brings Hope and Inclusion
Meanwhile, speaking at the Children’s Socialization Party — a highlight of the celebrations — Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection said the program was designed to ensure that children feel included in the nation’s Independence activities.
“We actually planned for 1,200 kids, but the turnout has far exceeded that,” she explained. “The intent of the Children’s Party is to make the celebration inclusive so that the kids can feel a part of the 26th.”
Despite concerns that the large attendance might outstrip available resources, the Minister assured parents that every child would receive a gift. “We have made enough provisions so that no child goes home empty-handed,” she emphasized.
The Minister described the overwhelming turnout as a sign of hope and resilience among Liberian families. “It shows that Liberian children are hopeful. Even though publicity was minimal, parents and children came in droves. The joy, the dancing, and the energy in the room remind us that our children carry great potential and talents we must nurture,” she noted.
She also revealed plans to partner with the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) to create more regular recreational opportunities. “We are looking at signing a memorandum of understanding to allow children to use playgrounds on weekends. The lesson from today is that we must keep our kids engaged and support their talents through extracurricular activities,” she said.
Stepping Up the Street Child Rescue Program
Beyond the Independence celebrations, the Minister also addressed a pressing issue — the growing number of children on Liberia’s streets.
She highlighted the ministry’s recent intervention, which involves removing children from the streets, supporting their parents with small business grants, and ensuring the children are enrolled in schools through collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
“No child deserves to be on the street. Every child deserves to be safe,” she said firmly, citing the risks of rape, accidents, trafficking, and exploitation.
According to the Minister, enforcement of the initiative began last Friday, with social workers and police working together to rescue children found begging alongside adults with disabilities. Parents are now required to sign commitment bonds to prevent a return to the streets.
Currently, 14 children are under the ministry’s care after being intercepted from traffickers attempting to take them out of the country. “It is a whole-of-society approach. We are working with parents, community leaders, and the education ministry to ensure these children are safe, enrolled in school, and supported,” she said.
The Minister acknowledged some unintended consequences, noting that reports suggest some families may be sending children to the streets in hopes of receiving assistance. “Sometimes a good intent can create a trickle-down effect that is counterproductive,” she admitted. “But we are determined to address these challenges while keeping children’s welfare as the priority.”
As Liberia moves forward from its Independence celebrations, the Ministry of Gender is pledging to sustain momentum by turning festive joy into long-term strategies for children’s safety, education, and growth.
