Africa-Press – Liberia. Liberia’s Information Minister, Jeremiah Matthew Piah, frowns on waves of constructions in wetlands across the country, terming the practice a total mess.
The Minister of Information, Culture Affairs & Tourism, Jeremiah Matthew Piah, describes construction of structures in wetlands across Montserrado County a “total mess,” stating that such actions directly violate the Environmental Protection and Management Law of the Republic of Liberia.
Speaking strongly against the illegal practice, Minister Piah stresses, “Before anyone builds in wetlands, they must comply with Liberia’s zoning laws.” He further emphasizes that no one should construct in wetlands or alleys, as these are protected areas.
“Now that we’re taking steps to address the problem, some people are being hesitant,” he says, adding, “We have a leader committed to changing the narrative and bringing development to Liberia. In this process, no one is untouchable.”
Piah further discloses that the National Culture Center, where RLJ hotel complex now stands, was demolished by the government, and 52 acres of land were secured to build a new cultural center. However, that land, he notes, has been heavily encroached upon by squatters, leaving only 11 acres.
According to the Minister, government does not need to be “ready to develop the wetlands” before evicting illegal occupants. “Building in these areas is wrong, so we will remove the structures and develop the land when resources become available.”
As part of this effort, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in partnership with the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC), Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), Ministry of Public Works, and Liberia Land Authority, launched a joint demolition exercise here on April 16, 2025. The operation is also being carried out in collaboration with the Liberia National Police and the Ministry of Justice.
The EPA warns that failure to comply with environmental regulations will lead to enforcement actions, including demolitions, fines, and potential legal prosecution. The Agency highlights the crucial role wetlands play in Liberia’s climate resilience and disaster risk reduction, especially in preserving biodiversity and preventing natural disasters.
The EPA reaffirms its commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring all Liberians enjoy a clean and ecologically balanced environment.
It may be recalled that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai appointed Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of the EPA, to chair a newly formed Wetlands and Coastal Protection Task Force, under Executive Order No. 143. This task force was established in response to increasing environmental threats such as pollution, coastal erosion, and climate change.
President Boakai emphasized the urgency of the initiative, warning that the continued destruction of wetlands, waterways, and beachfronts threatens both the environment and the livelihoods of community residents.
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