The World Bank has amplified its commitment to empowering Liberian women fishmongers by increasing the Women Fishmongers Empowerment Grant Facility from US$800,000 to US$1.2 million. This decision, announced at the official launch of the facility in Monrovia, underscores the World Bank’s focus on achieving tangible impact and expanding the reach of the program to benefit a greater number of women. Ruma Tarvorath, the World Bank Task Team Lead for the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project, emphasized that the initial allocation was insufficient to create substantial change and thus the increase was necessary. The project, implemented in collaboration with the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), seeks to improve the livelihoods of women involved in the fishing industry. The amplified grant will not only support more beneficiaries but also facilitate the integration of aquaculture into the program, further diversifying opportunities for women in the sector.
The World Bank’s commitment to expanding the program to encompass aquaculture represents a significant step towards promoting sustainable livelihoods. By incorporating women into aquaculture activities, the project aims to diversify income streams and enhance food security within coastal communities. The inclusion of aquaculture within the existing fisheries project marks a concerted effort to create a more holistic and impactful intervention, recognizing the interconnectedness of different aspects of the marine sector. This broader approach is expected to yield greater benefits for the women involved and contribute to the overall development of the Liberian fisheries sector.
The official launch of the grant program was marked by calls for increased participation of women in the aquaculture sector. Dr. Alexander Nuetah, Chairman of the NaFAA Board and Minister of Agriculture, urged the grant recipients to leverage this opportunity to transform their lives and build a more secure future. The grant, provided by the World Bank and implemented by Conservation International, targets women fishmongers in Montserrado, Grand Cape Mount, Margibi, and Grand Bassa Counties. This targeted approach aims to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women in these regions, ensuring that the grant has the maximum possible impact on their livelihoods and economic empowerment.
The selection process for the grant beneficiaries was rigorous, involving a thorough review of over 6,000 applications. Mathais Okoku, Finance Director of Conservation International, disclosed that 1,400 fishmongers were ultimately selected, representing 25% of the applicants. This competitive selection process highlights the high demand for such support and underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in the allocation of funds. Prior to receiving the grant, the successful candidates will undergo pre-disbursement training to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and utilize the funds.
The disbursement process is designed to ensure transparency and accountability. Each beneficiary will sign a commitment and attestation form detailing the grant amount and budget breakdown. A digital database will be established, containing each beneficiary’s photo, name, phone number, address, and grant amount, to facilitate tracking and monitoring. Mobile payment systems will be utilized for disbursement, and third-party verification of beneficiary phone numbers will be conducted to enhance security and prevent fraud. These measures demonstrate a commitment to responsible and effective grant management, ensuring that the funds reach the intended recipients and are used for their designated purpose.
The Women Fishmongers Empowerment Grant Program is not only about providing financial support; it’s also about building capacity and fostering a sense of empowerment. The program recognizes the critical role that women play in the Liberian fisheries sector and aims to enhance their contribution to their families, communities, and the national economy. By investing in women fishmongers, the program seeks to strengthen their financial independence, improve their business skills, and promote sustainable fishing practices. The establishment of a Grievance Redress Mechanism underscores the commitment to fairness and transparency throughout the process, ensuring that any concerns or complaints are addressed promptly and effectively. This holistic approach highlights the importance of not just providing financial resources but also fostering an environment of support, accountability, and empowerment for the beneficiaries.
