As Liberia marked its 178th Independence anniversary, Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP), has placed children at the heart of the celebrations, underscoring both joy and responsibility in shaping the nation’s future.
In an exclusive interview during the 26th Independence Day festivities, Gender Minister Horace-Kollie, reflected on the importance of children’s participation in national events and updated the public on her ministry’s ongoing campaign to remove children from the streets and integrate them into schools and safe environments.
Children’s Party Brings Hope and Inclusion
Speaking at the Children’s Socialization Party — a highlight of the celebrations — the Minister Horace-Kollie 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.
