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Former Liberian First Lady Clar Marie Weah has clarified that the City of Hope Academy, built for less privileged girls, is a private foundation funded entirely by private donations, contrary to public perception. By Stephen G. Fellajuah Monrovia, Liberia; October 30, 2025 - Former First Lady Clar Weah sparked widespread engagement on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, when she took to her official Facebook page to interact directly with Liberians at home and abroad. After greeting her followers, Madam Weah announced, “I want to have some interactions here today.” She invited the public to ask her questions about the Clar Hope Foundation and the City of Hope Academy, assuring everyone that she would be online for the next three hours to respond personally. Among the many questions raised, Prince Togbah asked a pointed one: how much of the Liberian government’s money, if any, had former President George Weah, her husband, dived to the City of Hope Academy? In a firm response, the former First Lady clarified, "No government or country money was used in this project. I would appreciate it if you could do more research on the Clar Hope Foundation. If you find out that government money was diverted to this project, I will advise you to take legal action against me and my foundation.” Another follower asked how she feels about running the Clar Hope Foundation in a country where, nowadays, everything is politics. They also wanted to know whether the foundation benefits children in remote areas and if boys would one day be included in the Academy’s enrollment, which currently serves only girls. Madam Weah responded warmly, "I feel perfect, and I sleep soundly every night knowing that I am making my little efforts toward the future of our country. I hear people every day, but the truth is that politics is everywhere —not only in Liberia. For now, our targeted beneficiaries are girls only.” Many followers expressed heartfelt appreciation for her efforts in supporting Liberia’s underprivileged children. May God continue to protect you and open more doors for the smooth running of the foundation,” Bedger commented. Thank you so much for the opportunity given to the underprivileged kids, he added. When Amjad Kiawu inquired about what inspired the establishment of the Clar Hope Foundation and how the City of Hope Academy fits into its vision, Madam Weah shared her motivation: My inspiration comes from my love for kids. Over the years, we have supported many people from secondary schools, vocational institutions, colleges, and universities. After traveling around the country and visiting orphanages, I clearly saw the need to help children; hence, the establishment of the Clar Hope Foundation.” She added, "The vision is to empower women for a prosperous life, and I strongly believe that is possible when we pay more attention to young children.” Her Facebook post quickly went viral, generating nearly 700 comments of encouragement, gratitude, and admiration. Clar Weah, Liberia’s First Lady from 2018 to 2024, is a Jamaican American businesswoman, nurse, and philanthropist. She founded the Clar Hope Foundation to support underprivileged children, youth, and women through education, health, and empowerment initiatives. During her time as First Lady, she also partnered with Merck Foundation to empower women and promote girls’ education. Even after leaving office, Clar Weah remains actively involved in humanitarian work. Recently, she met with Liberia’s current First Lady, Katumuu Y. Boakai, pledging continued support for philanthropic and social initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of Liberians. Editing by Jonathan Browne
