The Wetland Taskforce in Liberia held its first meeting to implement Executive Order 143, focusing on combating wetland degradation caused by urban expansion and pollution. Key officials participated in discussions about the rising flood risks and the need for immediate actions, including forming a Technical Working Group and launching public awareness campaigns. The Taskforce committed to various strategies aimed at preserving Liberia’s vital wetlands.
On March 6, 2025, Liberia’s newly established Wetland Taskforce convened its inaugural meeting at the headquarters of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Monrovia. This Taskforce, formed under Executive Order 143, aims to combat encroachment on Liberia’s wetlands, waterways, and beachfronts. Key attendees included EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Justice Minister N. Oswald Tweh, and city mayors from Monrovia and Paynesville, among other officials.
The meeting was chaired by Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo and primarily addressed the pressing issue of wetland degradation in Liberia, exacerbated by urban development, pollution, and rising sea levels. Participants discussed a World Bank report projecting that, without immediate action, over 600,000 individuals and 9,600 hectares of land could face severe flooding by 2030. The serious environmental ramifications discussed included biodiversity loss and increased flood risks due to inadequate drainage systems.
During the meeting, attendees highlighted several challenges affecting wetland conservation, including rapid urban migration, inadequate housing, weak law enforcement, and a lack of inter-agency coordination. To respond effectively, members agreed to implement a range of immediate, medium, and long-term strategies.
As an immediate action, a Technical Working Group is to be formed by March 7, 2025, comprising representatives from each participating institution and ensuring gender balance. This group will formulate practical proposals and engagement plans to assist the Taskforce Steering Committee. Additionally, a comprehensive public awareness campaign will be launched, engaging media outlets, community leaders, mobile network providers, and environmental groups.
For medium and long-term strategies, the Taskforce plans to strengthen legal enforcement and collaborate with local municipalities on wetlands protection. They will also undertake demolition of structures in critical ecosystems, implement a public dashboard to improve transparency, integrate scientific research for conservation efforts, and involve owners of beachfront properties in protection measures.
The Wetland Taskforce is dedicated to the urgent implementation of Executive Order 143 to ensure the preservation of Liberia’s essential wetlands, supporting environmental sustainability and public safety.
The formation of the Wetland Taskforce marks a significant step towards tackling the acute challenges of wetland degradation in Liberia. By convening key stakeholders and committing to actionable strategies, the Taskforce aims to safeguard the country’s vital ecosystems against urban encroachment and environmental threats. The collective initiatives, from establishing a Technical Working Group to launching public awareness campaigns, underscore a proactive approach towards sustainable wetlands management.
Original Source: gnnliberia.com
