By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
COLOGNE, GERMANY – Liberia has begun actively seeking increased international support to strengthen its national response to drought and climate-related challenges.
The initiative is being spearheaded by Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, at the inaugural Riyadh Global Drought Resilience Partnership (RDRP) conference held in Cologne, Germany.
Dr. Yarkpawolo is accompanied by Mr. Arthur R. Becker, Director of Multilateral Environmental Agreements at the EPA, while Liberia’s UNCCD Focal Point, B. Jallah, participated virtually in the high-level event.
According to a statement issued late Monday, Dr. Yarkpawolo used the international platform to advocate for countries like Liberia to be prioritized for investment and technical support under the global drought initiative. He urged the Partnership to provide Liberia access to the Readiness Fund to support the completion of its national drought strategy, strengthen governmental capacity, and develop major donor-ready projects.
“Our people are already living through the effects of drought. It’s not just about weather — it’s about food, water, land, and the lives of ordinary Liberians,”
— Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo
He further described drought as a direct threat to Liberia’s food security, economic growth, and national stability—particularly in rural communities where agriculture and natural resources are essential to daily life.
Dr. Yarkpawolo stressed the urgency of transitioning from reactive responses to proactive, long-term planning and resilience building. He noted that Liberia has already begun taking steps toward climate-smart development.
The statement highlighted Liberia’s National Agriculture Development Plan (2024–2030), which focuses on restoring healthy soils, protecting water sources, and promoting sustainable food systems.
Empowering Local Communities
Dr. Yarkpawolo also emphasized the critical role of local communities in building resilience. He called for the inclusion of women, youth, and smallholder farmers in designing and monitoring drought resilience programs.
Additionally, he underscored the importance of establishing early warning systems to support farmers and local authorities in anticipating and mitigating disaster impacts.
While Liberia is committed to ambitious climate goals, he acknowledged that the country continues to face significant financial and technical constraints.
“Liberia is not asking for charity; we are asking for partnership. A partnership that is flexible, transparent, and tailored to the real needs of vulnerable nations,”
— Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo
He expressed gratitude to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for convening the RDRP and ensuring that nations like Liberia are represented at the global level.
The EPA reaffirmed Liberia’s full commitment to a drought-resilient and sustainable future, stating that the country is ready to work hand-in-hand with international partners to translate ideas into action — and action into hope.
