The recent launch of SAWABENU, a new justice advocacy group in Monrovia, Liberia, marks a significant milestone in promoting legal aid, particularly for rural women. The official launch ceremony took place on October 18, 2024, and attracted an array of local and international partners, including notable organizations like the Carter Center, SIDA, and CENTAL. Named SAWABENU, which translates to “the law exists” in a local vernacular, this initiative stems from the Carter Center Liberia’s ongoing commitment to enhancing legal education and services throughout the nation. The presence of various stakeholders at the launch underscores a collective acknowledgment of the necessity to improve legal access and the rule of law in Liberia.
The event was officiated by Cllr. Sylvester D. Rennie, the President of the Liberia National Bar Association, who emphasized the importance of the new organization in addressing justice access challenges, particularly regarding the overwhelming number of pretrial detainees in Liberian prisons. He highlighted the connection between denied justice and increased violence, expressing optimism about SAWABENU’s potential to facilitate access to legal recourse for marginalized populations. Cllr. Rennie officially launched the organization, reaffirming the Bar’s commitment to ensuring justice for the disadvantaged.
Sarnyenneh M. Dickson, the Acting Executive Director of SAWABENU, provided insights into the organization’s foundation and operational framework. Established in 2023, SAWABENU currently operates with a small team that includes dedicated roles focused on program, compliance, administration, finance, and monitoring and evaluation. The organization’s mission is centered on empowering rural women by enhancing their understanding of legal entitlements and building the capacity of local Civil Society Organizations. Initial funding from the Swedish Government through the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) has enabled SAWABENU to launch its activities in four targeted counties: Margibi, Bong, Nimba, and Grand Bassa.
Johnny Ndebe, the Program Officer of the Carter Center Liberia, spoke about the organization’s broader efforts in promoting local justice systems throughout the country. He emphasized the importance of sustainability by building local institutions rather than solely providing temporary solutions. Ndebe described SAWABENU as a fresh addition to the landscape of justice in Liberia, signaling that, while it is a new organization, its principles align with long-standing efforts to fortify the rule of law in the country. His remarks suggest a collaborative environment aiming to confront the systemic challenges obstructing access to justice.
In his address at the launch, newly elected President of the Press Union of Liberia, Julius Kanubah, underscored the critical relevance of rule-of-law adherence for Liberia’s future, linking it directly to democracy. He warned that without a firm establishment of legal frameworks and justice systems, democratic progress would be jeopardized. This connection between governance and justice was reiterated by various other organizational representatives present, who pledged to support SAWABENU’s initiatives and collaborate on efforts aimed at broadening access to justice nationwide.
The launch of SAWABENU thus represents a concerted effort by multiple stakeholders to address the glaring gaps in legal access for rural women in Liberia. Given the notable statistics and the commitment expressed by the Bar Association and international partners, the initiative promises not only to create awareness but to engage in practical solutions for legal empowerment. As SAWABENU embarks on this journey, the collaboration highlighted at the launch suggests a strategic approach to fostering a more equitable legal landscape capable of supporting those in desperate need of justice. The involvement of local and international organizations will be vital in sustaining the momentum of this newly established group and ensuring its long-term impact on the legal rights of rural women in Liberia.
