By Christian Appleton
Kablakeh, Maryland County – In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, three coastal communities in Harper District—Fish Town, Worteken, and Kablakeh—signed a six-month renewable conservation agreement on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. This landmark agreement aims to protect and manage the region’s vital mangrove forests.
The signing ceremony, held in Kablakeh Township, brought together community leaders, traditional chiefs, local authorities, and representatives from key government agencies and environmental groups. The Conservation International Liberia (CIL) facilitated the agreement, which seeks to actively engage local communities in safeguarding mangrove ecosystems. These crucial ecosystems face increasing threats across Liberia and the broader West African coastline.
Mangroves: Nature’s Frontline Defenders
Mr. Dhiabah Curtis Jackson Sr., CIL’s Southeastern Region Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, provided an overview of the program, emphasizing mangroves as “vital ecosystems” that offer a range of ecological, economic, and social benefits. He highlighted their critical role as habitats for diverse wildlife, natural protectors against coastal erosion, and powerful carbon sinks that help combat climate change.
“Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is not just helpful—it is essential,” Jackson stated. “This agreement formalizes our partnerships and sets the foundation for sustainable mangrove management.”
Goals of the Agreement
The initiative outlines several key objectives:
- Formalizing Roles between CIL and local communities.
- Raising Awareness about the importance of mangrove preservation.
- Empowering Communities through training and sustainable resource management.
- Promoting Sustainable Practices that balance environmental protection with economic needs.
Community Leaders Take a Stand
The chiefs of Fish Town, Worteken, and Kablakeh pledged strong community enforcement of the agreement. Chief George A. Freeman of Fish Town made a firm vow: “No matter the circumstances, we will be the first to report violators. Anyone caught cutting mangroves for charcoal or firewood will face customary penalties, including fines and community service. We will not spare violators.”
Support from Conservation International Liberia
CIL reaffirmed its commitment by providing over $30,000 USD worth of material support, including:
- One 15-horsepower motorized canoe per town.
- One tricycle and two bicycles per town.
- Five solar-powered freezers per town.
- 45 bundles of high-quality fishing nets for each community.
“These are not handouts,” Jackson clarified. “They are investments in the future—designed to promote safer, more productive, and sustainable fishing practices.”
National Agencies and Local Officials Commend Initiative
Representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Cooperative Development Agency (CDA), and local officials witnessed the agreement.
Mr. Levi Z. Piah, EPA’s Blue Ocean Focal Person, praised the initiative, stating: “The destruction of mangroves threatens not only biodiversity but also the survival of coastal communities. This agreement is a major step forward in community-led conservation.”
Mr. Benedict Togba, CDA Program Assistant, echoed this sentiment, urging fishing cooperatives to fully utilize the opportunity and avoid illegal practices.
Speaking on behalf of the Maryland County Superintendent, Mr. Joe K. Brown lauded the communities for their leadership: “This agreement should inspire other coastal towns across Liberia. We commend the unity shown by Fish Town, Worteken, and Kablakeh.”
Enforcement and Penalties
To ensure compliance, the agreement outlines a structured penalty system:
- First violation: 10% reduction in material support with a warning letter.
- Third violation: 25% reduction.
- Fourth violation: 50% reduction.
- Subsequent offenses: Termination of agreement benefits.
District Commissioner Napoleon N. Brown assured communities that his office would help monitor implementation and mediate any disputes that arise.
A Model for the Nation
With mangroves rapidly vanishing across the region, this initiative is seen as a model for broader national action. Stakeholders agreed to conduct regular assessments and revisit the agreement after six months for potential renewal, depending on compliance and environmental outcomes.
The ceremony concluded with strong support from women leaders, who pledged to uphold the conservation values outlined in the agreement and encourage wider community participation. “We want Liberia to be on par with other environmentally conscious nations,” said one local women’s representative.
As the tide of environmental awareness rises in Maryland County, Fish Town, Worteken, and Kablakeh stand at the forefront of a national movement toward sustainable, community-driven conservation.
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