The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, in partnership with Conservation International (CI) Liberia, has officially launched the country’s first National Mangrove Inventory Report a landmark achievement under the Blue Ocean Program aimed at protecting Liberia’s vital coastal and marine ecosystems. The event, held in Monrovia, brought together key development partners, conservation experts, and government officials who commended Liberia’s growing leadership in environmental stewardship.
Speaking at the launch, CI’s Country Director, Mr. Valentine Ebua, underscored the need for strong policy actions to safeguard the nation’s mangrove ecosystems, including the establishment of legally protected mangrove areas. He emphasized that mangroves are not just trees but “natural shields” that protect communities from coastal erosion and rising sea levels. Representing the Government of Sweden, Ms. Kerstin Jousson Cissé hailed the report as a landmark achievement and praised the contributions of Liberian scientists and technical experts especially those from the University of Liberia for their data-driven work in advancing environmental research and conservation.
EPA Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel King Urey Yarkpawolo, highlighted that healthy mangrove ecosystems are directly linked to jobs, food security, flood protection, and climate resilience. He further announced a US$3.2 million national framework for community restoration, law enforcement, research, and the establishment of a national mangrove park. Dr. Yarkpawolo called on partners, including the European Union, Sweden, the World Bank, and UNDP, to support the full implementation of the framework.
Guided by President Joseph N. Boakai’s Executive Order No. 143 to protect and restore wetlands, the EPA’s National Wetlands Task Force has begun mapping mangrove boundaries, identifying threats, and engaging coastal communities. The new inventory provides real-time data on mangrove extent, condition, and carbon storage critical tools for national planning and investment. This milestone goes beyond documentation it is a call to action. With science, collaboration, and sustained investment, Liberia is poised to lead West Africa’s Blue Economy and secure a vibrant, resilient coastline for generations to come.
