MONROVIA, December 30 -- Three more African leaders have sent to Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf messages of congratulations and pledges of cooperation on her election as President of Liberia.

A press release from the Unity Party said those who sent the messages were Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki, the President of Eritera, Isaias Afwerki and Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

The release quoted President Kibaki as saying that the election of Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf shows the trust and confidence the Liberian people have in her to reconstruct the country and develop its economy in this post-conflict period.

President Kibaki expressed the hope that as the two countries strive to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, Mrs. Sirleaf's victory will bring to the forefront gender issues that until now have been relegated to the background.

Mrs. Sirleaf, as Africa's first woman President, will be an inspiration to women all over the world in order for them to aspire for higher office, said President Kibaki.

He described the presidential election, as a peaceful transition to democracy that is not only an example to the sub-region, but is also critical to the stability of the region.

Kenya would continue to work closely with the Government of Liberia as well as the international community to ensure that the gains made are consolidated for the benefit of the people of Liberia.

Meantime, the President of Eritrea, Isaias Afwerki, has wished the President-Elect well and hoped that Liberia will continue on a steady road to greater heights of peace, stability and development.

For his part, the President of Tunisia, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, has wished the President-elect and Government success, progress and prosperity in all her endeavors.

President Ben Ali assured Mrs. Sirleaf of Tunisia's continued support in order to strengthen the brotherly relations and cooperation for the development of the two countries.

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