Gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue in Liberia, with women and girls facing high rates of abuse both during and after the country’s civil wars (between 1989 and 2003). Studies indicate that as many as 70 percent of Liberian women have experienced some form of gender-based violence, including sexual violence, highlighting the enduring impact of conflict and systemic inequality.
DIGNITY have asked Naomi Tulay-Solanke CEO of our Liberian partner organisation ‘the Community Health Care Initiative (CHI) about their main challenges in 2025.
How does Community Health Care Initiative (CHI) engage with young and vulnerable women, youth, and minority groups in Liberia?
»Community Health Care Initiative (CHI) takes a community-driven approach to empowerment, working closely with local leaders to build trust and ensure our initiatives meet the specific needs of those we serve. Through workshops, dialogues, and awareness campaigns, we create spaces where young women, youth, and minority groups can voice their concerns and access vital resources.
Our programs focus on education, offering literacy, vocational training, and digital skills to enhance employability and independence. Beyond education, we advocate for policy reforms, provide legal support, and work to protect the rights of marginalized communities.
Economic empowerment is also central to our work, with microfinance programs and entrepreneurship training helping individuals build sustainable livelihoods. By amplifying community voices and fostering self-sufficiency, we strive to create lasting, equitable change.«
What are the main challenges in 2025, and how is Community Health Care Initiative (CHI) addressing them?
»The recent US government stop-work order has created significant funding and operational challenges. To sustain our programs, we are diversifying funding through new partnerships and local initiatives. Operational disruptions remain a concern, but we are implementing contingency plans, leveraging technology, and optimizing resources to maintain services.
Beyond funding, gender inequality and economic instability continue to impact the communities we serve. Through advocacy, education, and empowerment programs, we work to promote inclusivity and resilience. Health and environmental concerns also remain critical, and we are integrating health education and sustainable practices to strengthen community resilience. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to our mission.«
What gives you hope in your work?
Despite the challenges, the resilience of the communities we serve is a constant source of inspiration. Their determination to overcome adversity and create better futures reinforces our commitment.
Collaboration also fuels our optimism. The solidarity of our partners, stakeholders, and the global community strengthens our belief in collective action and meaningful change. Seeing the tangible impact of our programs—stories of empowerment and transformation—reminds us why this work matters.
The growing global focus on gender equality and minority rights further supports our efforts, signaling a broader movement toward justice. While obstacles remain, resilience, innovation, and collaboration keep us hopeful for the future.«
How DIGNITY supports our partners in Liberia
»DIGNITY has two partners in Liberia. One is LAPS – The Liberia Association of Psychosocial Services and the other is the Community Healthcare Initiative, CHI.
Since 2007, DIGNITY has supported LAPS through training in psychosocial interventions, project management, advocacy and fundraising.
In 2022, DIGNITY signed a partnership agreement with the CHI, which has a strong profile in community-based prevention of gender-based violence, which is major problem in Liberia.
DIGNITY’S work in Liberia is supported by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.
