Africa-Press – Liberia. The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has concluded a field mission to Sinoe County as part of preparations for the implementation of a major coastal climate resilience initiative.
The mission, led by EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo and UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Louis Kuukpen, included visits to Seebeh, Bannah, and Downtown Mississippi.
The delegation met with local leaders and residents to assess coastal erosion impacts and engage stakeholders ahead of the full rollout of the Enhancing the Resilience of Vulnerable Coastal Communities Project.
Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) with a total budget of USD 8.9 million, the project aims to protect vulnerable coastal populations from the effects of climate change while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
The Sinoe coastline has been heavily impacted by rising sea levels and coastal erosion, threatening homes, farmlands, and economic activity. As part of the intervention, the project will involve the construction of shoreline revetments, delivery of climate adaptation training, promotion of financial inclusion, and the provision of compensation for natural resources used in project activities.
During the visit, the Bannah community received a cheque of USD 25,000 in compensation for rocks sourced from their land for revetment construction. The gesture was praised by community members as a symbol of transparency and equitable development.
A human resource firm has been contracted to recruit 44 local workers—both skilled and unskilled—from the target communities. The recruitment process, according to the EPA, prioritizes fairness, gender inclusion, and youth participation.
The temporary jobs are expected to provide immediate income while fostering a sense of ownership and long-term sustainability for the project.
“This project is not only about protecting our environment—it is about restoring dignity, creating jobs, and building resilience for the most vulnerable among us,” said EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo. “Its success can serve as a national model for future climate resilience efforts.”
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Louis Kuukpen reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to completing the project by the end of 2026. “Our priority is to protect the people of Sinoe from the devastating impacts of coastal erosion. We are grateful for the support of the community and the generous contribution of GEF, which has made this work possible.”
Sinoe County Acting Superintendent Mayah Padma welcomed the initiative and emphasized the importance of local involvement. “This compensation and employment scheme shows that development can be fair and inclusive. Our people feel seen, valued, and supported.”
Women’s leader Josephine Doe, speaking on behalf of the Bannah community, expressed appreciation for the initiative. “For too long, we watched the sea take our homes. Today, we see the government and partners standing with us—not only protecting our land but also giving our people jobs and recognizing our resources. This gives us courage.”
The project, which runs through 2028, will also focus on strengthening institutional capacity for climate adaptation, developing localized climate information systems, and introducing hybrid adaptation measures tailored to the needs of coastal communities.
Authorities say the initiative reflects Liberia’s broader commitment to climate action and inclusive development in line with national and international goals.
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