Greenville, Sinoe County, May 15, 2025 — The Government of Liberia, through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has officially broken ground for a major coastal defense project in Greenville, Sinoe County, aimed at protecting the city from the devastating effects of sea erosion. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Tuesday, March 13, 2025, at the Greenville Administrative Building.

The initiative, known as the Sinoe County Coastal Defense Project, carries a total cost of $20.4 million USD. It is being funded through a partnership between the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Government of Liberia.

Speaking at the event, EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo underscored the urgency of the project, noting that the advancing sea poses a serious threat to Greenville.

“Greenville is being washed away by the sea,” Dr. Yarkpawolo warned. “This project will help protect lives, properties, and the future of this city.”

He explained that the project includes the construction of a rock revetment along the shoreline, with the necessary rocks to be sourced from the nearby Bana community. Liberia’s contribution includes the provision of these rocks at no cost, while GEF and UNDP are committing approximately $9.1 million in direct funding.

Dr. Yarkpawolo revealed that the project, while officially launched now, began technically in October 2022 and will run through August 2028. Foundational activities—such as environmental and social impact assessments, mapping of vulnerable zones, and contract signings—have already been completed.

“The required machinery has already arrived in the Bana community. Contracts for rock excavation and equipment rental have been signed. We’re on the move,” he said.

He emphasized that a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bana community ensures that at least 50% of the workers hired for the project will come from the local population—empowering the very people most affected.

However, he cautioned that while progress has been made, funding gaps remain. He disclosed that the initial project budget did not include compensation for the host community or local laborers. A request for $350,000 was submitted to the Ministry of Finance but was not approved.

“We’re appealing to the lawmakers of Sinoe County to advocate for this in the next national budget review. If we don’t secure additional support, the project may suffer delays or even risk donor withdrawal,” Dr. Yarkpawolo warned.

Sinoe County Superintendent Peter Wleh Nyensuah welcomed the attendees and hailed the project as one of the most significant development undertakings for the county in recent history.

“This is a big achievement not only for the people of Greenville but for the entire Republic of Liberia. Sea erosion has robbed our people of land, livelihood, and peace of mind. This project restores hope,” he said. “The EPA, our international partners, and the people of Bana have shown what partnership can do. We must now rally our collective strength to see this through.”

Superintendent Nyensuah also praised the community’s willingness to cooperate and encouraged transparency, collaboration, and local oversight to ensure smooth implementation.

For his part, Sinoe County Senator Augistine S. Chea, who attended the event, reaffirmed the Legislature’s commitment to ensuring that the EPA receives the necessary support to close funding gaps.

“The people of Bana deserve more than just gratitude—they deserve recognition and compensation for their role in safeguarding our coastal cities,” Senator Chea said. “The Sinoe Legislative Caucus will work with the EPA to ensure that the $350,000 requested is inserted in the upcoming national budget. This is not a favor—it’s a duty.”

He emphasized that the government must take ownership of climate resilience initiatives, stating that this project must serve as a model for other counties.