MONROVIA – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), the Liberia Marketing Association (LMA), and several Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs), has broken ground for a major Solid Waste Management Transformative Pilot Project. The initiative, funded by the Government of Canada, aims to modernize waste management, tackle persistent sanitation challenges, and create sustainable jobs in Monrovia.
By Francis G. Boayue
The project falls under the Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) Climate Action framework, a central pillar of Canada’s Novasphere initiative, and is expected to become a model for future waste management systems across the country.
The official groundbreaking and site turnover ceremony was held on Friday, July 11, at the Jorkpen Town Market in Monrovia—signaling a significant milestone in the city’s push toward improved sanitation and environmental sustainability.
Christopher Godlove, Co-Lead of the Solid Waste Management Transformative Pilot, handed over the site to the contractor, Vintage Group of Companies. He expressed confidence in the project’s transformative potential.
“This project will pave the way for new approaches to managing waste, not only in Monrovia but throughout Liberia,” Godlove said. “It will create jobs and provide sustainable solutions to some of our most pressing sanitation challenges.”
Godlove praised the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders—from the EPA’s technical leadership to MCC’s operational support and LMA’s crucial role in securing the project site. He emphasized the importance of CBEs in building a circular economy around waste, saying:
“We rely on the knowledge and dedication of CBEs to turn waste into economic opportunities.”
He called on the Vintage Group to ensure the project is delivered within the targeted three to four months and stressed the need for a sustainable business model post-construction to keep the facility viable for years to come.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Madam Vermon Sangah Lloyd—representing the MRV Climate Action Solid Waste Team and the Government of Canada—lauded the collective commitment to the project.
“Waste management is a national priority,” Lloyd declared. “This facility will serve as a model for future waste treatment and management efforts across Liberia.”
She expressed gratitude to Canada and the Novasphere program for their unwavering support and urged the contractor to adhere to timelines and quality standards.
Speaking on behalf of the Monrovia City Corporation, Deputy City Mayor and City Manager Jones N. Williams expressed deep appreciation for the partnership and praised the leadership of both Lloyd and Godlove. He also acknowledged EPA Deputy Director Dweh Boley for his responsiveness and dedication.
Williams highlighted the critical role of the LMA, particularly the market women, in defending the project site against political interference.
“They stood firm and made sure this project stayed here,” he recalled. “Their resilience was key in preserving this market space for development.”
He shared a personal note, revealing that both his mother and Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan’s mother were once market women.
“This project honors the sacrifices of everyday Liberians. It is a source of pride for both the government and our people.”
For his part, EPA Deputy Executive Director Dweh Siehwloh Boley underscored the urgent need for improved sanitation in Monrovia and called on the LMA to take full ownership of the facility upon its completion.
“We are facing a waste management crisis,” Boley warned. “This project comes at a critical time.”
He emphasized the importance of maintenance and community responsibility, referencing biblical teachings on cleanliness.
“Even the best facility becomes useless without proper care,” he said. “If we don’t take ownership, we’re squandering donor support.”
LMA President Elizabeth Sambolah echoed those sentiments, recounting the political hurdles overcome to retain the site for the project.
“We stood our ground—no politician could interfere,” she stated. “This project belongs to the people.”
Sambolah pushed back against the stereotype that marketers are solely responsible for urban filth, urging community-wide participation in sanitation efforts. She also advocated for innovation in the project’s next phase.
“We need a recycling machine like those in neighboring countries. If land is required, we’ll provide it,” she said. “Bring the machine—we’ll ensure it benefits everyone.”
She concluded with a pledge of full cooperation from the marketers, “rain or shine,” to see the project through to success.
