SFC Calls for Unified Action on Youth, Social Protection | News

Calls for coordinated action to strengthen families, expand youth opportunities, and reinforce social protection systems dominated discussions at the eighth Strengthening Families Conference held in Monrovia, where regional leaders, policymakers, faith-based organizations, and development partners gathered to develop collective responses to West Africa’s growing social challenges.

The two-day forum, held June 19–20 at the E.J.S. Exhibition Complex under the theme “Strengthening Families, Empowering Youth, and Building Resilient Communities,” was organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It marked the first time Liberia has hosted the regional conference, which has previously been held in Ghana, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Sierra Leone. Organizers also announced that the 2027 edition will be hosted in Cotonou, Benin.

Opening the conference, Elder Prince Nyanforh of Area 70 in Liberia emphasized the centrality of the family unit in national development and social stability.

“The family is society’s first institution and most important safety net,” he said, calling for stronger collaboration among governments, faith-based organizations, civil society, academia, and the private sector to address the social pressures affecting households across the region.

One of the most widely noted interventions came from Nobel Peace Prize laureate Leymah Roberta Gbowee, who reflected on how her upbringing shaped her life trajectory and reinforced the importance of family support systems. She referenced her father’s decision to prioritize education over harmful traditional practices as a defining influence in her life and highlighted ongoing efforts through her foundation to support vulnerable girls.

“Strong families create stronger children, and stronger children build stronger nations,” Gbowee told participants.

Representing the Africa West Area Presidency, Elder Adeyinka A. Ojediran addressed the lingering social and developmental impacts of Liberia’s civil conflict, noting that its effects continue to influence household stability and youth outcomes. He outlined four key pillars for youth empowerment—values, mentorship, education and skills development, and a sense of belonging—while also highlighting church-supported initiatives aimed at strengthening young people beyond religious affiliation.

Government officials reinforced the call for stronger social protection systems. Hon. Fode E. Kape, Chief of Staff to First Lady Kartumu Yatta Boakai, emphasized the need to strengthen safeguards for children and young people. Deputy Minister for Children and Social Protection Gahme S. Tokpa raised concern over the scale of child labor in Liberia, citing estimates that more than 366,000 children are engaged in street peddling, while outlining ongoing government interventions aimed at addressing the issue.

Regional and institutional representatives from Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Engage Now Africa, and the Archdiocese of Monrovia also contributed to the discussions, highlighting mental health, responsible technology use, vocational training, and financial literacy as essential tools for preparing young people for future opportunities.

Across the various sessions, panelists examined the growing pressures facing families, including economic hardship, weakening social structures, and the expanding influence of digital technology. Despite differing perspectives, participants consistently returned to one conclusion: resilient communities depend on strong families supported by coordinated action across all sectors.

The conference also recognized individuals and organizations contributing to child protection and family welfare across the region. Among the awardees was Abdul Manaf Kemokai of Defence for Children International Sierra Leone, who received the 2025 Family Values Award. Former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor also participated as a panelist and special guest.

Beyond policy discussions, the event featured cultural performances, youth presentations, and exhibitions showcasing community initiatives and local enterprises. Organizers also highlighted development-linked projects, including the groundbreaking of the Du Port Road Maternity Hospital in Montserrado County and a classroom construction initiative in Bong County.

As the conference concluded, delegates reaffirmed a shared message of unity and responsibility, echoing a familiar Liberian proverb: “One broomstick breaks easily, but a bundle cannot be broken,” underscoring the belief that stronger families remain the foundation for stronger communities and nations.