-Seeks $32 Million for Implementation
By Vaye A. Lepoluvayelepolu446@gmail.com
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has launched its comprehensive five-year strategic plan, aimed at enhancing environmental governance and promoting sustainable practices across the nation. This initiative represents a significant milestone in the EPA’s commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges.
The development of the 2025 Strategic Plan was a rigorous and collaborative process. It involved a thorough situational analysis, including an internal review of the EPA’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), as well as an evaluation of Liberia’s political, economic, social, and environmental landscape. Key stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, private sector actors, and international partners, were identified and consulted through workshops and interviews.
Executive Director Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo emphasized that the strategic plan is not just a roadmap but a pledge to the country and its stakeholders. “We are dedicated to empowering local governance structures, enhancing institutional capacity, and fostering public engagement in environmental stewardship,” he stated.
To implement this ambitious plan, the EPA anticipates a total budget of approximately $32,078,000. They are actively seeking $16,890,000 from trusted partners while committing to mobilize $15,188,000 from internal resources. Yarkpawolo highlighted the importance of this financial support in tackling Liberia’s environmental challenges.
The strategic plan is built upon core values of stewardship, professionalism, integrity, transparency, accountability, partnership, and respect. These principles will guide the EPA’s efforts to improve compliance and enforcement, cultivate international collaborations, and enhance resource mobilization. The agency aims to prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring meaningful engagement with stakeholders to facilitate inclusive decision-making processes.
Dr. Yarkpawolo expressed confidence in achieving the plan’s objectives with the support of the government, partners, and the community. “Together, we can strive for a sustainable future, preserving Liberia’s natural resources in line with the hopes and dreams of our people,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders to explore the details of the strategic plan, emphasizing its role as a blueprint for action. The EPA welcomes collaboration, particularly from partners and the diplomatic community, stating that a united effort among government institutions is essential for success.
The development of this strategic plan was fully supported by the Government of Liberia, with special thanks to consultant Mr. Charles C. Yorke and Mr. Christopher Kabbah, head of the Planning and Policy Department at the EPA, for their contributions.
Dr. Yarkpawolo reaffirmed the EPA’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stating, “We are here to engage, collaborate, and innovate towards a healthier environment.” He concluded by thanking attendees for their support and called for collective action to drive Liberia’s vision for sustainability forward.
