-To Advance Legislative Action on Climate Change in Liberia
Ganta, Nimba County – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, in partnership with the Liberian Legislature’s Committee on Land, Mines, Energy, Natural Resources, and Environment, has launched a landmark Climate Learning and Exchange Forum for lawmakers. The three-day event, held from February 14 to February 16, 2025, in Ganta, Nimba County, has brought together over 38 legislators to deepen their understanding of climate change and explore actionable strategies for mitigation and resilience. The forum is supported by NovaSphere under the West Africa MRV bilateral support for climate actions, with funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada.
In his opening remarks, Nimba County Electoral District #2 Representative Nyah Flomo, speaking on behalf of his colleague Representative Samuel Brown of District #1, highlighted the urgent need for legislative action to address the growing impacts of climate change across Liberia.
“Every corner of Liberia is feeling the effects of climate change—whether it’s erratic weather patterns, soil degradation, or devastating floods. These challenges are not just environmental; they are economic and social crises that threaten the livelihoods of our people. As lawmakers, we have a responsibility to craft policies that protect our environment and secure a sustainable future for all Liberians,” Rep. Flomo emphasized.
The forum aims to equip legislators with the knowledge and tools needed to advance climate-related legislation. Mr. Isaac Nyaneyon Kannah, MLCG Lead Coordinator, outlined the event’s objectives, which include enhancing lawmakers’ understanding of climate science, Liberia’s international climate commitments, mitigation strategies, carbon pricing policies, and national legal frameworks.
“Many people, including policymakers, may not fully grasp the complexities of climate change. This forum is designed to bridge that gap. By fostering a deeper understanding of these issues, we empower our legislators to pass laws that align with Liberia’s national and international climate goals,” Mr. Kannah explained.
The forum is structured as an interactive platform, encouraging dialogue and collaboration among lawmakers. Key topics include policy development for carbon pricing, nature-based solutions for climate mitigation, and strategies to enhance national climate resilience. Participants will also engage in working groups to draft actionable policy recommendations.
Representative Jeremiah Sokan, Chairman of the House Committee on Land, Natural Resources, and Environment, praised the EPA for its efforts to involve the Legislature in climate policy formulation.
“This forum marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s climate journey. By bringing lawmakers closer to the national climate agenda, we ensure that our policies reflect the needs of our people. Over the next few days, we will be reminded of the critical role that every tree, water source, and piece of land plays in our survival,” Rep. Sokan stated.
He also highlighted Liberia’s potential to attract international partnerships to strengthen climate governance and urged his colleagues to seize this opportunity to develop informed, impactful policies.
EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo expressed his appreciation for the lawmakers’ participation, stressing the importance of legislative support in advancing Liberia’s climate agenda.
“Climate change is a universal challenge that requires collective action. The presence of so many members of the House of Representatives here today is a testament to our shared commitment. The EPA has developed a five-year strategic plan aligned with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. With the Legislature’s support, we can mobilize the resources needed to implement this plan effectively,” Dr. Yarkpawolo said.
He called on legislators to champion policies that enhance Liberia’s resilience to climate-related disasters and position the country as a leader in the global fight against climate change.
The EPA is confident that this forum will yield tangible outcomes, ensuring that Liberia remains proactive in addressing climate change at both national and international levels. The event will continue with expert presentations, interactive sessions, and legislative working groups focused on drafting actionable recommendations to guide Liberia’s climate resilience strategy for years to come.
