Celebrating Today marks Liberia's 177th Independence Day, a historic occasion of great significance for the people of Liberia. Celebrated on July 26th, this day commemorates the country's declaration of independence from the American Colonization Society (ACS) in 1847. It became the first and only sovereign state on the African continent for over a century. Before its independence, Liberia was established by the ACS as a colony to resettle free African American slaves emigrating from the United States.
Liberia Independence Day is a time of national pride, reflection, and unity. It serves as a reminder of Liberia's rich history and the enduring spirit of its people. The celebrations bring communities together, fostering a sense of belonging and patriotism while highlighting the nation's strength and resilience.
The country's history has been marred by turbulent times, including a devastating 14-year civil war that claimed over 200,000 lives and displaced one-third of the population. When the country emerged from the war in 2003, the under-five child mortality rate stood at a staggering 110 per 1,000 live births.
Eleven years after recovering from the war, Liberia faced the deadly Ebola virus pandemic, which claimed more than 4,800 lives and severely disrupted the country's health system. The outbreak led to increased child mortality from curable and vaccine-preventable diseases, with many children losing one or both parents. At least 22 percent of Ebola cases were among children, and 75 percent were women.
Despite these challenges, Liberians are among the most resilient and joyful people you will ever meet. The strength, courage, and smiles of the women and children are especially admirable. If you have the opportunity to interact with them, their stories will intrigue and inspire you.
Here are five key facts about poverty in Liberia:
1. Food Supply: According to the World Bank, 68.9% of Liberia's population lives below the national poverty line. In 2019, approximately 63% lived on less than $2 daily, and this is predicted to increase to more than 77% by 2029.
2. Education: Liberia lags behind most African countries in education. It has one of the world's highest rates of out-of-school children, with over 15% of 6- to 14-year-olds not attending school. Additionally, only a third of preschoolers have access to early education programs, and 69% of children complete primary school.
3. Malnutrition: Liberia has one of the highest levels of malnutrition globally, ranking 37th out of 152 nations in 2019.
4. Water: About three in ten people in Liberia lack access to clean water, and more than 500 children under age five die from diarrhea annually.
5. Sanitation: More than 62% of people living in rural areas in Liberia use rivers or the bush for defecation.
At Hope 4 Liberia, our mission is to glorify God by serving the needs of orphans in Liberia. God has blessed us with a beautiful boys' home and a girls' home for double-orphaned children. In addition to providing them with a home, we are dedicated to transforming their lives by helping them grow into self-reliant and responsible individuals who will be change-makers in their communities.
As we celebrate this day, let us remember Liberia's journey and the strength of its people. It is a day to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future full of hope and promise.
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