Monrovia, Liberia – August 24, 2026_The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the inclusion and empowerment of persons living with disabilities, as the Group of 77 explores partnership opportunities with the Agency in environmental protection, climate change, waste management and livelihood activities.

A delegation from the Office of the First Lady under the Group of 77, led by Raymond Zarbay, Senior Administrator, paid a courtesy visit to the EPA on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, to discuss possible areas of collaboration and learn more about the Agency’s support for vulnerable and marginalized groups.

During the meeting, the delegation expressed appreciation to the EPA for its continued support to the Group of 77 and recognized the Agency’s efforts toward promoting inclusion.

The discussions highlighted the need to create greater opportunities for persons living with disabilities to participate in environmental and climate change programs while also improving their access to skills training, employment, and livelihood opportunities.

The EPA’s commitment to disability inclusion is also reflected within its own workforce, with two persons living with disabilities gainfully employed at the Agency. Their employment demonstrates the EPA’s efforts to provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to the workplace and national development.

The delegation identified capacity building as one of the potential areas for collaboration, particularly in equipping persons living with disabilities with skills that can improve their livelihoods and participation in community development.

The issue of accessibility was also discussed, with the delegation raising concerns about the design of many buildings in Liberia, which they said often do not adequately accommodate persons living with disabilities.

They noted that limited accessibility, including difficulties with stairs and movement within buildings, continues to create challenges for people with disabilities.

Health was also identified as one of the major concerns affecting persons living with disabilities, underscoring the need for broader programs that address their social, economic, and environmental well-being.

The Office of the First Lady under the Group of 77 has developed a four-year strategic plan, which will guide its programs and partnerships.

The delegation said the strategic plan provides an opportunity to strengthen collaboration with the EPA in areas including environmental protection, climate change, waste management, livelihoods, and community-based initiatives.

Particular attention was given to women and girls living with disabilities, who the delegation noted are among the most marginalized groups in their communities.

The delegation referenced the “Empower Her” program, established by the wife of the Vice President, as an initiative aimed at creating opportunities for women and girls and promoting their empowerment.

The Group of 77 expressed interest in working with the EPA to identify practical ways in which persons living with disabilities, including women and girls, can benefit from environmental and climate-related programs.

For his part, EPA Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Anthony S. Kollie thanked the delegation for the visit and welcomed the proposed areas of collaboration.

Kollie said he would convey the delegation’s message and proposals to EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo for further consideration.

He said the EPA remains open to discussions that can promote inclusive environmental action and create opportunities for vulnerable groups, including persons living with disabilities.