As part of the Government of Liberia's 100-day deliverables, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially launched its decentralization process. The program was held at the Bentol City Administrative Building in Montserrado County on Friday, May 3, 2024, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funding from the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA).
The EPA implemented its decentralization plan by establishing four new County offices in Benton City-Montserrado County, Cestos City-Rivercess County, Bopulu-Gbarpolu County, and Robertsport, Grand Cape Mount County, as part of the Government of Liberia's 100-day deliverables. The EPA now has 13 county offices, with the addition of 4 new offices throughout Liberia
The launch event was graced by distinguished government officials such as His Excellency Vice President Jeremiah Kpang Koung, the Superintendent of Montserrado County and team, the EPA Senior Management team and staff, environmental inspectors and awareness officers, Civil Society representatives, and the media.
During the official launch, the Acting Executive Director of the EPA, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, stated that he would ensure the effective decentralization of the agency under his leadership. He also mentioned that he is committed to upholding the mission, vision, and core values of the EPA, which are aimed at protecting and sustainably managing Liberia's environment.
Dr. Yarkpawolo revealed that the EPA plans to establish the last two County offices in Grand Kru and River Gee counties to enhance decentralization efforts, as funding is available.
According to him, the creation of four new county offices is being backed by the deployment of environmental inspectors and awareness officers, which will be facilitated with necessary logistics such as motorbikes, office equipment, and supplies, as well as solar-powered county offices.
The head of the EPA proudly announced that the agency has successfully achieved all the goals established in its 100-day deliverable plan.