The Liberian government, through the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection, has permanently revoked the operating licenses of Americans for African Adoptions (AFAA) and its affiliate, Cradle of Hope orphanage, due to serious child abuse and welfare violations. This decision followed an extensive investigation by the Liberia National Police, which uncovered numerous allegations of child mistreatment, including physical abuse and neglect, at the AFAA orphanage.
The police report revealed that staff members at AFAA routinely subjected children to physical punishment, including forcing them to lift heavy chairs and beating them with wooden spoons. Additionally, AFAA failed to report sexual abuse incidents within the orphanage. The Ministry’s letter, dated February 19, 2024, confirmed the revocation of AFAA’s accreditation, citing the findings from the police investigation.
While AFAA has lobbied for reinstatement, the Ministry of Gender rejected this request, emphasizing the safety and best interests of Liberian children. Furthermore, the Ministry assured that measures would be taken to care for the children previously under AFAA’s care, including evaluating cases for potential reunification with their biological parents or placement in safe homes. The Ministry has also banned all key AFAA staff from working in adoption or childcare services in Liberia.
Despite the serious nature of the findings, the Ministry has not disclosed the full police report, and the public remains uncertain about the full extent of the actions taken to protect the children involved or to hold the responsible parties accountable.
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