James T. Brooks
MONROVIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental protection and climate action, describing the responsible management of Liberia’s natural resources as a cornerstone of national development and long-term prosperity. Delivering his Annual Message to the 55th Legislature on Monday, President Boakai emphasized that his government has strengthened the enforcement of environmental and biodiversity laws to ensure resources are both protected and used sustainably. To support this, environmental governance has been decentralized, empowering local communities and authorities to take a more active role in decision-making and conservation efforts.
In terms of global climate action, the President highlighted progress on international commitments, specifically citing Liberia’s ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which seeks to protect marine resources in international waters. He further announced that the government has expanded access to climate finance and established a Carbon Market Authority. This strategic move is intended to position Liberia to benefit from carbon trading while simultaneously preserving the nation’s forests and reducing carbon emissions.
Regarding conservation, President Boakai disclosed that authorities have begun clearing intruders from Sarpo National Park as part of a broader effort to protect wildlife and prepare the park for tourism and other sustainable economic activities designed to create jobs. To enhance these efforts, the President announced the establishment of a modern environmental laboratory to improve monitoring, testing, and enforcement across the country. He concluded by stressing that his administration remains dedicated to balancing environmental protection with economic growth, asserting that national development must not come at the expense of Liberia’s natural heritage and must safeguard resources for both present and future generations.
Comments are closed.