The Wetland Taskforce held its first meeting in Monrovia to implement Executive Order 143, addressing the urgent issues of wetland degradation in Liberia. Chaired by EPA Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, the meeting focused on challenges posed by urban growth and pollution. Immediate actions include forming a Technical Working Group and launching an awareness campaign, while long-term strategies will enhance legal enforcement and community collaboration for wetland protection.
The Wetland Taskforce convened its inaugural meeting at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) headquarters in Monrovia to implement Executive Order 143, aimed at addressing encroachment issues affecting Liberia’s wetlands, beaches, and waterways. Key government officials attended the meeting, including EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo and various city mayors. The meeting focused on the ongoing wetland degradation crisis exacerbated by urban expansion and pollution, with significant risks of flooding projected by a World Bank report by 2030.
Participants discussed the severe environmental and social implications tied to wetlands degradation, such as biodiversity loss and heightened flood risks. They identified several pressing challenges like rapid urban migration, insufficient housing, weak law enforcement, and lack of inter-agency coordination. In response, the Taskforce established immediate, medium, and long-term action plans to tackle these issues effectively.
As an immediate measure, the formation of a Technical Working Group is planned for March 7, 2025, consisting of representatives from each participating institution, ensuring gender balance. This group is tasked with crafting actionable proposals and strategies for effective engagement. Additionally, an extensive public awareness campaign will launch, involving various stakeholders such as media and environmental organizations.
Medium and long-term initiatives will focus on enhancing legal enforcement, collaborating with municipalities for wetland protection, and coordinating demolitions in critical ecosystems. The Taskforce also aims to implement a public dashboard for transparency, integrate scientific research into wetland conservation efforts, and engage property owners in protection initiatives.
The inaugural meeting of the Wetland Taskforce marks a significant step towards tackling wetland degradation in Liberia. With a strong commitment to Executive Order 143, the Taskforce is set to undertake immediate, medium, and long-term strategies aimed at preserving vital ecosystems. The collaboration among government agencies, public awareness initiatives, and planned legal enforcement are critical components ensuring overall environmental sustainability and public safety.
Original Source: gnnliberia.com
