Women Face Marginalization In Liberia –Amb. Appleton Observes

By Moses J. Dawoe
/Southeast Correspondent
Liberia’s Ambassador to Japan, Edward Appleton, has raised concern over what he calls the continued marginalization of women in the country, citing a lack of balanced opportunities in both government and private sector concession areas.
Speaking during a ceremony in Pleebo City on April 5, Ambassador Appleton, who also contested in the 2023 presidential elections, lamented the limited access women have to education, economic empowerment, and participation in political processes.
“Women in Liberia are being left behind. They face significant barriers in accessing education, starting businesses, and getting involved in national decision-making,” he said.
He called on the Liberian government to prioritize gender equality and create avenues for women to play more active roles in shaping the nation’s future.
At the event marking his visit to Maryland, the ambassador also pledged to leverage his diplomatic position in Japan to attract educational scholarships for Liberians—especially those from Maryland County.
“I am committed to using my role to build strong bilateral ties that bring scholarships, trade, and investment opportunities to Liberia,” he added, noting that education is key to empowering communities and reducing poverty.
Ambassador Appleton pointed to high unemployment in Maryland County despite the presence of major concessionaires such as Cavalla Rubber Corporation (CRC), Maryland Oil Palm Plantation (MOPP), and Golden SIFCA Investment (GSI).
He urged civil society organizations to hold these companies accountable and advocate for more inclusive employment practices.
“Our people deserve better,” he said. “We must ensure that the resources within our region are used to improve the lives of our citizens.”
Despite challenges, Appleton expressed optimism about the future, stating that with improved infrastructure—particularly road networks—the southeastern region, including Maryland County, could benefit significantly from the country’s natural wealth.
The ambassador stressed that Maryland had been abandoned due to poor road networks.