NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection with the dedication of the new headquarters of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Elemental Analyzer, describing the twin milestones as a significant step toward strengthening environmental governance, scientific research, and responsible national development.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Speaking Thursday, July 16, 2026, during the official dedication ceremony, President Boakai said the new EPA headquarters and advanced laboratory equipment symbolize Liberia’s determination to build stronger public institutions capable of protecting the country’s natural resources while promoting economic growth.
“It is with great pleasure that I join you today for the dedication of the Environmental Protection Agency headquarters edifice and, along with it, the commissioning of the Agency’s new Elemental Analyzer,” President Boakai said. “This represents Liberia’s commitment to stronger governance, responsible development, scientific research, and the protection of the health and well-being of our people.”
The ceremony brought together members of the EPA Board and management, Cabinet officials, representatives of the Legislature and Judiciary, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, traditional and community leaders, EPA staff, and members of the media.
EPA Plays Critical Role in National Development
President Boakai emphasized that the Environmental Protection Agency occupies a central role in Liberia’s development agenda, noting that the institution is responsible for ensuring that economic expansion does not come at the expense of the country’s rich environmental resources.
According to the President, Liberia’s forests, wetlands, rivers, coastlines, and biodiversity are invaluable national assets that must be protected for both current and future generations.
He stressed that while Liberia welcomes investment and economic development, such progress must be accompanied by strong environmental regulations that safeguard communities, prevent pollution, and preserve the country’s natural heritage.
“The Environmental Protection Agency has a vital responsibility in the state of affairs and forward march of this nation,” President Boakai stated. “Liberia needs investment and development, but development must be properly regulated to protect communities, prevent pollution, and preserve our natural heritage.”
He added that the completion of the headquarters demonstrates what public institutions can accomplish when leadership, accountability, partnerships, and long-term national interests guide government decision-making.
Permanent Headquarters Marks Institutional Milestone
President Boakai described the acquisition of the EPA headquarters as an important institutional achievement that will significantly improve the Agency’s operational capacity.
The newly acquired property provides the EPA with a permanent home equipped with offices, conference facilities, and workspaces for both technical and administrative personnel.
The facility also houses a modern laboratory that will enhance Liberia’s capacity for scientific testing, environmental monitoring, research, and evidence-based regulatory enforcement.
The President disclosed that the government acquired the 1.8-acre property for approximately US$800,000, including taxes and associated fees, a figure he said is significantly below its assessed market value.
He noted that the acquisition eliminates the government’s recurring expenditure on rented office space while transforming public spending into a permanent national asset.
“The purchase ends the continuous payment of rent and converts public expenditure into a permanent asset,” President Boakai said. “This passes for a practical example of responsible financial management, institutional foresight, and value for public money.”
He commended EPA Executive Director Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo and the Agency’s management team for achieving what he described as a major institutional milestone.
“For this achievement, we appreciate Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo and the EPA Team. Institutions such as the EPA must be hosted in permanent facilities,” he said.
Modern Laboratory Equipment to Strengthen Scientific Research
A major highlight of the ceremony was the commissioning of a sophisticated Elemental Analyzer valued at €100,000, donated by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) through a competitive selection process.
President Boakai explained that the advanced laboratory equipment will significantly improve the EPA’s ability to analyze soil, water, sediments, plants, and other environmental samples.
He said the analyzer will provide critical support to environmental regulators, researchers, universities, farmers, and health professionals by generating reliable scientific data needed for informed decision-making.
The equipment will also contribute to research on soil fertility, water quality, pollution levels, organic carbon storage, coastal ecosystems, mangrove conservation, and the environmental impacts of development activities across Liberia.
According to President Boakai, Liberia has long struggled with limited scientific data, inadequate laboratory facilities, and delays caused by sending environmental samples abroad for testing.
He noted that the new analyzer will reduce dependence on foreign laboratories while strengthening confidentiality, national ownership of scientific information, regulatory efficiency, academic research, and the training of Liberian scientists and students.
International Partnerships Recognized
President Boakai praised the International Atomic Energy Agency for supporting Liberia’s environmental sector through the donation of the advanced equipment.
He also acknowledged the EPA’s growing collaboration with the University of Liberia and Manchester Metropolitan University, particularly in conducting research on Liberia’s mangrove ecosystems and their capacity to store organic carbon.
The President said such collaborations demonstrate the benefits of partnerships among government institutions, universities, development partners, and researchers in advancing scientific innovation and environmental conservation.
“I commend the International Atomic Energy Agency and partners whose support made this monumental achievement possible,” he stated.
Call for Professional Stewardship
President Boakai urged the leadership and staff of the Environmental Protection Agency to professionally maintain both the new headquarters and the laboratory equipment.
He emphasized that the laboratory should operate according to internationally recognized standards and serve as a national center for environmental enforcement, scientific research, education, innovation, and evidence-based policymaking.
The President reiterated that his administration remains committed to implementing the government’s ARREST Agenda while ensuring that environmental sustainability remains a cornerstone of Liberia’s development strategy.
“Our Government remains committed to implementing the ARREST Agenda and protecting Liberia’s environment while advancing sustainable economic development,” he said. “Environmental protection is not an obstacle to development; it is the foundation and guardrail for development, ensuring it is responsible, inclusive, resilient, and lasting.”
Officially dedicating the facility and commissioning the Elemental Analyzer, President Boakai expressed optimism that the investments will strengthen environmental governance, promote scientific discovery, protect public health, and contribute to building a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous Liberia.
