Historic Step Toward Gender Equality: Forest Union Elects Majority Women Leadership

By Joy Mardea Moore

The National Union of Community Forestry Development Committee (NUCFDCs) has elected its most gender balanced leadership to date. The election serves as a historic move toward gender equality and women’s empowerment in forest community leadership which took place in Gbarnga, Bong County on 11th December 2024.  

Out of eight newly elected officers, five are women, marking a significant milestone for the organization and underscoring its commitment to gender inclusivity and progress. 

The historic milestone came during the NUCFDC’s 15^th anniversary celebration which was characterized by activities such as 7^th General Assembly and 5th democratic elections. The women dominated leadership reflects growing momentum for women’s representation in leadership roles, particularly within sectors traditionally dominated by men. 

As the year 2024 draws to a close, NUCFDC expressed appreciation to key partners and supporters, including the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (LEITI), and Liberia Land Authority (LLA) for what the union termed as continued collaboration. 

On the international front, NUCFDC extended gratitude to partners including the Legal Empowerment Fund under the Funds for Global Human Rights, the Grassroots Justice Network, NAMATI, the Forest and Farm Facility of FAO, Fern, UNDP Liberia Office, the EU Liberia Delegation, and the VPA Support Unit, among others. 

Reflecting on the year’s achievements, NUCFDC leadership emphasized their optimism for the future. “This year’s election is not just about leadership; it’s about setting a new standard for gender equality,” the organization stated. 

With women now holding the majority of leadership positions, NUCFDC is poised to drive impactful change in the coming years, strengthening community forest management while advancing gender equity. 

“Together, we can achieve more,” the statement concluded, signaling a renewed commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainable development as the organization looks ahead to 2025.