MONROVIA: Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, Liberia’s Environmental Protection Agency Executive Director has divulged alarming financial discrepancies that have hindered the agency’s progress since he assumed office in February 2024.
The EPA Boss declared openly that upon taking oversight, the EPA’s bank account held only $325 USD, despite a reported balance of $17,723.54 USD as of December 2023.
The notable gap between reported and actual funds underscores serious concerns about the agency’s financial management under the previous administration.
He made the revelation over the weekend during the agency’s year-end festivity in Monrovia.
Financial Records Missing
Further complicating the situation, Dr. Yarkpawolo stated that critical financial documents, including bank statements and reports spanning January 2018 to December 2023, were unavailable.
This lack of documentation has made it nearly impossible for the new leadership to fully assess the EPA’s financial history and accountability.
“The absence of these records limits our ability to analyze past financial decisions, identify gaps, and effectively plan for the future,” Dr. Yarkpawolo noted during his remarks.
Incomplete Strategic Plan
In addition to financial irregularities, the EPA inherited an incomplete agenda for its long-term goals. Dr. Yarkpawolo cited the Joint Presidential Transition Team (JPTT) Report, which revealed that only 20% of the agency’s 5-Year Strategic Plan had been implemented during the CDC administration.
“The limited progress reflects a lack of prioritization of environmental issues, which are critical to Liberia’s sustainable development,” Dr. Yarkpawolo expressed.
Contests Ahead
The revelations highlight significant challenges for the EPA’s new leadership, including restoring financial transparency, rebuilding institutional capacity, and addressing Liberia’s pressing environmental concerns.
Dr. Yarkpawolo emphasized the urgent need for stronger financial oversight mechanisms to prevent further discrepancies.
Promenade Forward
Despite the daunting challenges, the EPA has pledged to make accountability and transparency central to its operations going forward.
Dr. Yarkpawolo called for increased collaboration with international partners, civil society, and government agencies to bolster the agency’s capacity and deliver on its environmental mandate.
“Rebuilding trust starts with transparency. We are committed to ensuring that every dollar entrusted to the EPA is used effectively to protect Liberia’s environment and promote sustainable development,” Dr. Yarkpawolo ended.
Populace Reaction
The disclosures have sparked public concern, with environmental advocates urging swift reforms to prevent future mismanagement.
“We cannot afford to let environmental issues fall by the wayside. The EPA needs the resources and leadership to address the growing threats to our natural resources and communities,” said environmentalist Martha Kollie.
As the EPA works to overcome these challenges, stakeholders are watching closely, hoping that the agency can regain stability and fulfill its critical role in safeguarding Liberia’s environment.