(Monrovia, Liberia, December 5, 2024)– The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has begun a two-day Technical Dialogue on including the country’s freshwater ecosystem in its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) 3.0. The event, held at the Corina Hotel in Sinkor, Monrovia, runs from December 5 to 6, 2024, under the theme: “Watering Liberia’s Updated Nationally Determined Contributions 3.0: Increasing Ambition for the Future.”

The dialogue is supported by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and brings together experts, stakeholders, and organizations to address the threats facing Liberia’s freshwater resources.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Emmanuel Urey-Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of the EPA, highlighted the importance of freshwater to Liberia’s socio-economic development. Quoting Benjamin Franklin, he emphasized, “When the well goes dry, we know the worth of water,” adding that Liberia’s abundant water resources, including six major rivers, are under threat from pollution, human activities, and climate change.

Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo noted that the St. Paul River, a key resource for water supply and electricity in Monrovia, is already experiencing reduced water levels.

He said this has impacted hydroelectric power production and water supply, especially during the dry season. “The sustainability of our freshwater ecosystem is critical to our national development,” he said.

He also acknowledged Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung’s announcement at COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, regarding Liberia’s commitment to including freshwater ecosystems in its updated NDCs. “This dialogue is a step toward achieving the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Growth and Development, which prioritizes environmental sustainability,” Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo added.

Armel Mewouth, Regional Water Focal Point for IUCN’s Central and West Africa Programme, commended Liberia’s efforts and promised continued collaboration to support the country’s freshwater initiatives. “We want to see Liberia become a member of the IUCN,” he added.

Water Aid Liberia Representative Mohammed Bangale expressed gratitude to the organizers, highlighting his organization’s efforts in providing clean water and sanitation since 2009. He stressed the need for joint action to tackle water-related challenges in Liberia.

Augustine Wehyee, Head of Research and Statistics at the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, spoke about the growing threat of pollution to Liberia’s freshwater. “Waste dumping in rivers is a serious problem. This workshop will help us find solutions to manage our freshwater ecosystem,” he said.

Eric Patten, Coordinator of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture at the University of Liberia, emphasized the importance of the dialogue in enhancing understanding and protecting freshwater resources.

The workshop brought together representatives from the EPA, National WASH Commission, University of Liberia, UNDP, and other key stakeholders. Discussions focused on addressing pollution, sustainable management practices, and integrating freshwater ecosystems into Liberia’s climate action plan.

The event concludes on December 6, 2024, with the expectation of actionable recommendations to protect Liberia’s freshwater resources for future generations.