MONROVIA, LIBERIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Thursday dedicated the new Environmental Protection Agency headquarters and commissioned a state-of-the-art Elemental Analyzer, calling the milestone a sign of Liberia’s commitment to stronger governance, scientific research, and environmental protection.[Name]
Speaking at the dedication ceremony, the President said the new facility represents more than just a building. It reflects the government’s resolve to ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of Liberia’s forests, wetlands, rivers, and coastlines.
The President told the gathering that the Environmental Protection Agency has a vital responsibility in the country’s state of affairs and forward march as such, It must help ensure that the pursuit of economic growth does not destroy the natural resources which present and future generations depends on.
According to the President, the government acquired the property for about eight hundred thousand United States dollars, including taxes and fees noting that it is significant below market value.
“This passes for a practical example of responsible financial management, institutional foresight, and value for public money,” he said, while commending EPA Executive Director Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo and the EPA team for the achievement.
The President also commissioned a new Elemental Analyzer valued at one hundred thousand euros. It was donated by the International Atomic Energy Agency following a competitive process.
President Boakai acknowledged the IAEA and other partners for making the acquisition possible and highlighted ongoing collaboration between the EPA, the University of Liberia, and Manchester Metropolitan University on research into Liberia’s mangroves and their capacity to store organic carbon.
He added that the partnerships show what can be achieved when government, academia, development partners, and researchers work together and urged the leadership of EPA to maintain the new facility and equipment to international standards.
The Chief Executive of Liberia concluded with an official dedication of the EPA Headquarters and commissioned the Elemental Analyzer expressing hope that the facility will strengthen governance, promote scientific discovery, protect public health, and contribute to a cleaner and more prosperous Liberia.
