-Pushes for Global Biodiversity Fund Activation
CALI, Colombia – Liberia has called for the immediate activation of the Global Biodiversity Fund, stressing the urgency of financial and technical support for biodiversity conservation in developing nations at the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Liberian delegation, led by the Environmental Protection Agency through its Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, urged global leaders and developed nations to honor their commitments, highlighting Liberia’s vital role as a steward of West Africa’s remaining biodiversity.
Addressing the high-level segment in Cali, Colombia, the EPA Boss, Dr. Yarkpawolo underscored Liberia’s responsibility to protect the Upper Guinea Rainforest, representing over 42% of West Africa’s last remaining rainforest. “Our ecosystems are not only national treasures,” he said, “they are fundamental to the ecological balance and social well-being of the region.”
In his address, Dr. Yarkpawolo emphasized that Liberia has made strides toward ambitious national biodiversity goals, aligning with the Global Biodiversity Framework. As part of the government’s ARREST Agenda, the country is updating its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and working on a 30×30 national action plan under Target 3. He noted that these efforts include collaboration across government, local communities, and conservation groups.
Highlighting Liberia’s broader environmental commitment, Dr. Yarkpawolo emphasized that conserving biodiversity is essential for climate regulation, disease prevention, and supporting local communities. “These resources are not ours alone — they are our legacy for generations to come,” he said. “This is the responsibility we bear, and it is a duty we must honor.”
Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2026-2027 term was also announced, as Dr. Yarkpawolo called for support from the international community.
The conference saw representation from Liberia’s Environmental Protection Agency, Forestry Development Authority, the University of Liberia, and key environmental groups, all united in Liberia’s commitment to biodiversity preservation.
