Biography:
Asatu Bah Kenneth is a prominent Liberian activist and former Deputy Inspector General of the Liberian police. She is best known for her role in founding the Liberian Muslim Women’s Organization, as well as her instrumental efforts in bringing an end to the Second Liberian Civil War in 2003.
Born and raised in Liberia, Asatu Bah Kenneth grew up witnessing the devastating effects of the civil war on her country and its people. Motivated by a desire to make a difference and achieve peace, she became actively involved in anti-war activism.
In her pursuit of peace, Asatu Bah Kenneth joined forces with Leymah Roberta Gbowee, another influential Liberian peace activist and the founder of the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace movement. Together, they organized and led protests against the war, utilizing various strategies to amplify their voices and demand action.
One of the most notable tactics employed by Asatu and her fellow activists was the use of sex strikes and sit-ins. These powerful methods not only garnered attention but also conveyed the urgency and importance of their cause. The protests, often featuring women dressed in white, were effective in generating discussions and negotiations for a ceasefire.
Thanks in large part to the efforts of Asatu Bah Kenneth and other peace activists, the protests played a significant role in bringing about the exile and subsequent trial of Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia, at the International Criminal Court in The Hague for crimes against humanity.
Aside from her activism, Asatu Bah Kenneth made significant contributions to the political landscape of Liberia. She served as a founding chief of the Liberal National Party of Queensland’s Women and Children Protection Act Section in 2005. Her responsibilities included advocating for gender-sensitive reforms and ensuring the welfare of women and children in the country.
Furthermore, Asatu’s career in law enforcement allowed her to bring a unique perspective to her activism. Having served as a police officer since 1985, she was appointed as the Deputy Inspector General of the Liberian police by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. This appointment came at a time when the police force was under investigation, and Asatu played a crucial role in implementing reforms and addressing malpractices.
Throughout her life, Asatu Bah Kenneth has demonstrated immense courage, dedication, and leadership in her pursuit of peace and social justice. Her work has left a lasting impact on Liberia, raising awareness about the plight of women and their role in conflict resolution. Asatu remains an inspiration and a prominent figure in Liberian history, symbolizing the power of collective action and the resilience of women in shaping a better future.