The Forestry Development Authority (FDA), in collaboration with the Wild Chimpanzee Foundation (WCF) and local communities, has officially launched the Tai-Grebo-Krahn Complex Biodiversity Protection Project in Grand Gedeh County.
The launch ceremony took place on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Ziah City Hall in Konobo District, bringing together local authorities, forestry stakeholders, community members from Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties, and representatives from the offices of Senators Jonathan B. Sogbie and Thomas Yaya Nimley.
Valued at €4,718,065.74, the initiative aims to strengthen conservation and forest governance across the Upper Guinea Rainforest. Key project components include infrastructure development, equipment procurement, field surveillance, the recruitment of forest rangers and eco-guards, and enhanced transboundary management for the Grebo-Krahn National Park (GKNP).
Officially endorsing the project on behalf of the region, Grand Gedeh County Senator Thomas Yaya Nimley commended the FDA and WCF for integrating local communities into the framework. He assured stakeholders that local citizens stand ready to provide manpower and active support to ensure the forest is preserved for future generations.
Representing FDA Managing Director Hon. Rudolph J. Merab Sr., Deputy Managing Director for Community, Conservation, and Carbon Madam Nora G. Bowier reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the Tai-Grebo Complex as a vital sanctuary for endangered species, including pygmy hippos, forest elephants, and chimpanzees. She emphasized that the project belongs to the Liberian people and urged all partners to focus on actionable, results-oriented conservation efforts.
WCF Country Director Dr. Annika P. Hillers outlined the foundation’s logistical commitments, which include providing patrol support, vehicles, motorbikes, and uniforms, alongside launching recruitment for eco-guards and biomonitoring personnel within two months. She also highlighted direct community benefits, such as solar streetlight installations and local infrastructure support.
Project Focal Person E. Ekema A. Witherspoon revealed plans to construct a dedicated office for the Chief Park Warden at GKNP, hire six local staff members in collaboration with the FDA, and initiate local road construction projects. He extended appreciation to the German Government for its sustained funding since 2017, noting that after administrative delays under previous leaderships, the initiative is now fully operational under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration.
The event featured opening remarks from Ziah City Mayor Hon. Allen N. Quaye Sr. and drew attendance from the Superintendents of Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties, representatives from the Ministries of Justice and Local Government, and key conservation partners.
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