Monrovia, October 6, 2025 — The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) today hosted four members of the House of Representatives at its Mamba Point headquarters, showcasing the Agency’s modern Environmental Laboratory and ongoing reforms to strengthen national environmental governance.

The visiting delegation included Hon. Jeremiah Sokan (Grand Gedeh, District #1), Hon. Thomas Romeo Quoih (Sinoe, District #1), Hon. Emmanuel Dahn (Montserrado, District #8), and Hon. Prince Koinah (Bong, District #1). They were received by the Executive Director of the EPA, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, who led a guided tour of the EPA’s new  laboratory facilities and briefed the lawmakers on strategic priorities, pending developments, and critical capacity needs.

During an engagement in the Laboratory, Director Rafael  Ngumbu outlined robust coordination with the Freeport of Monrovia to ensure licensed chemical imports are safely handled and transported by trained teams. Director Ngumbu also informed the lawmakers that  the Radiatio laboratory is fully supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—including donated equipment and ongoing training negotiations to further build national expertise.

During the engagement, Dr. Yarkpawolo underscored the value of IAEA cooperation to Liberia’s environmental security and public safety. He noted that while Liberia continues to benefit from IAEA technical support, the nation’s outstanding dues remain a barrier to regaining Liberia’s voting rights and participation in decision-making. Liberia’s arrears total €225,000; however, a €50,000 payment would enable a hopeful waiver restoring voting privileges. The EPA Boss appealed to the lawmakers to champion sustained support for the EPA, emphasizing that the Agency’s dedicated technical teams stand ready to represent Liberia and deliver results, despite resource constraints.

The lawmakers commended Dr. Yarkpawolo and the EPA’s technicians for their professionalism and tangible progress, pledging to remain accessible and supportive of initiatives that advance environmental sustainability and protect public health.

About the ERRS Department and Laboratory

Mandate: The Environmental Research and Radiation Safety Department conducts environmental research and routine monitoring of water, soil, air, radiation, noise, and priority contaminants nationwide.

Purpose: Generate empirical, analytical data to inform evidence-based policies, prevent environmental disasters, reduce pollution risks, and mitigate project impacts on ecosystems and communities.

Significance: Supports early warning systems, advances scientific knowledge, strengthens climate action, promotes sustainable development, and fosters national, regional, and global cooperation.

Laboratory units

Marine and Water Quality Laboratory; Radiation Safety Laboratory; Instrumental Analytical Laboratory.

• Key monitoring programs
• Air quality and water quality monitoring
• Soil assessment and contamination monitoring
• Radiation exposure monitoring
• Analysis of food and feeds
• Targeted contaminant analysis (e.g., mercury and cyanide at gold mines; lead in paint; sulfur in fuel; drug purity)
• Evaluation of fertilizers and pesticides efficiency

Contribution to national sustainability

• Informing policy and regulations through high-quality data and analysis
• Raising public awareness via transparent reporting and community engagement
• Supporting sustainable practices for industry and communities
• Strengthening collaboration with government, academia, NGOs, and international partners

The EPA remains committed to ensuring environmental protection through science-driven regulation, collaboration, and continuous capacity enhancement for a healthier, safer Liberia.

For media inquiries:

Head, Media and Corporate Communications

Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia

ddennis@epa.gov.lr