Fractured by a 14-year civil war, Liberia is trying to pick up the pieces, facing staggering unemployment and lackluster infrastructure.
Halfway into her first term, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf — an economist educated at Harvard University who won the presidency at age 67 — is leading that recovery.
As Africa’s first elected female head of state, she has taken on corruption, gotten some of Liberia’s debt canceled and rebuilt the army with the help of the U.S.
Worldfocus correspondent Lynn Sherr and producer Megan Thompson report on one extraordinary woman trying to remake life in war-torn Liberia. Tune in for Worldfocus’ four-part signature series on Liberia airing the week of April 13.
In this extended interview, Sirleaf discusses the position of women in Liberia, the country’s recovery and relations with the U.S.
Lynn Sherr also interviews Sirleaf at The Daily Beast: Africa’s Powerhouse Prez.
Read producer Megan Thompson’s blog from the field: Liberia rebuilds but fragments of the fighting remain.
Read correspondent Lynn Sherr’s blog from the field: Liberian summit celebrates African women with laughter.
Read more about Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s memoir, ”This Child Will Be Great.”
05/27/2009 :: 12:41:22 AM
Leslie Clarkson Says:
My honourable aspirations and appreciaion goes to you, president Johnson. We will never stop praying for your adminstration. Born Sierra Leonean living California USA. God blesss Liberia and God bless Africa.