EPA Launches US$2M Program To Protect Liberia’s Wetlands

By Stephanie M. Duncan

MONROVIA–The Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Emmanuel Urey-Yarkpawolo, has announced the launch of a US$2 million national initiative aimed at protecting and restoring Liberia’s wetlands.

The program will focus on employing young people as wetland security officers, constructing physical barriers to prevent encroachment, restoring degraded wetland areas, and establishing protected mangrove parks to promote conservation education and eco-tourism.

Dr. Yarkpawolo made the announcement during the observance of this year’s World Wetlands Day, noting that the initiative demonstrates the EPA’s commitment to environmental protection as a catalyst for job creation and sustainable development.

According to him, Liberia’s wetlands play a critical role in climate regulation, flood control, biodiversity conservation, and the livelihoods of many communities, but continue to face threats from human encroachment and environmental degradation.

He called on government institutions, development partners, the private sector, civil society organizations, and local communities to work closely with the EPA to ensure the long-term protection and sustainable management of the country’s wetlands.

Dr. Yarkpawolo also expressed appreciation to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and international partners for their continued support toward strengthening environmental governance and safeguarding Liberia’s natural ecosystems.

The EPA says the initiative is expected to enhance wetland conservation nationwide while creating employment opportunities for youth and promoting environmentally sustainable livelihoods.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.