By Grace Q. Bryant
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has fined United Africa Minerals Cooperation (UAMC) US$30,000 and shut down its ‘Class B’ gold mining operations in Gbarpolu County due to severe environmental violations.
Following an investigation, it was revealed that the company had been operating without the required environmental permit.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information Cultural and Tourism’s regular press briefing on Tuesday, EPA Executive Director, Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, disclosed that UAMC’s mining activities have caused extensive environmental damage, including severe land degradation, significant biodiversity loss, and contamination of local water sources.
“These illegal activities not only threaten our environment but also jeopardize the livelihoods of local communities,” He disclosed.
Urey-Yarkpawolo said, “The EPA will continue to enforce the law and protect Liberia’s natural resources. We must ensure that companies operating in our country adhere to environmental standards and respect the rights of our citizens.”
He explained that the pollution has made it increasingly difficult for residents to access clean water for domestic use.
The EPA has also reported significant sediment buildup in nearby rivers, posing a serious threat to both the environment and public health.
Adding to the concerns, the investigation is looking into allegations that UAMC has engaged in the improper use of sodium cyanide, a hazardous chemical reserved for ‘Class A’ mining operations. The use of such a toxic substance in a ‘Class B’ operation raises further questions about the company’s compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
As a result of these violations, the EPA has imposed a fine of US$30,000, which UAMC is required to pay into the Government of Liberia’s revenue account within 72 hours.
The agency emphasized that this action is essential to holding mining companies accountable for their environmental responsibilities.
Yarkpawolo also mentioned that EPA officials will send a team of technicians to the mining site for a more thorough investigation into the alleged use of cyanide.
He disclosed that the findings will be made public, with many in the community eager for transparency and accountability.
The situation underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of mining regulations to prevent further environmental degradation and protect public health.
Meanwhile, on September 17, 2024, a devastating landslide occurred approximately 1 kilometer from Kilema Town, Foya District, Lofa County, prompting an urgent response from local and national authorities.
According to the EPA boss an investigative team comprising members from the EPA, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the National Disaster Management Agency was dispatched to assess the damage.
The investigation revealed that Kilema is situated in a hilly area with steep terrain, making it highly susceptible to landslides, particularly during the rainy season when excessive rainfall weakens soil stability.
Following days of intense rain, the landslide buried vast sections of farmland, severely disrupting local farmers’ livelihoods. Around 10 hectares of farmland were buried under debris, and one household lost a significant portion of its rice crop, vital for both sustenance and income.
The landslide contaminated a nearby stream, the primary source of drinking water and irrigation for the community, rendering it unsafe for human consumption and agricultural use.
The EPA’s investigation confirmed high soil moisture levels contributed to the landslide, as loose soil weakened the slopes, triggering massive soil movement.
In response to the incident, the EPA recommends an urgent provision of alternative drinking water for affected residents and an emergency assistance for affected farmers, especially those who lost crops.
The recommendations further called for the implementation of improved soil conservation practices and reforestation efforts and better land-use planning.
The EPA also highlighted the need to address the impact of climate change on Liberia, stressing the importance of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
The agency is collaborating with other institutions to establish a national meteorological center to monitor and report on Liberia’s weather patterns as part of the Climate Information System Project.
Another major concern raised by the EPA Executive Director was the degradation of the Montserrado Wetland along the SKD Boulevard Road.
He emphasized the significance of this vital ecosystem in maintaining regional biodiversity and supporting numerous species of flora and fauna.
Director Yarkpawolo called on all stakeholders including government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to collaborate on conservation measures to protect this critical environment.
“The Montserrado Wetland is not just a natural resource; it is an integral part of our ecological balance,” adding, “We must work together to safeguard it for future generations” he noted.
Yarkpawolo also highlighted the need for public awareness and community engagement in environmental conservation. He stressed that education and community involvement are essential for the success of the EPA’s initiatives.
“The agency is committed to raising awareness about environmental protection and promoting sustainable practices among the public,” he added.
The EPA will launch a series of outreach programs aimed at educating citizens on environmental issues and encouraging their participation in conservation efforts.
The EPA has recognized that engaging the public is crucial in fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
The upcoming outreach programs will focus on various aspects of environmental protection, including waste management, pollution reduction, and biodiversity conservation. By empowering citizens with knowledge and resources, the EPA aims to create a more sustainable future for Liberia.
