The Deputy Managing Director for Administration and Finance of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), reaffirms Liberia’s commitment to combating threats to wildlife and natural habitats during the 13th Governing Council of Parties to the Lusaka Agreement.
The council meeting, held in Nairobi recently coincided with the IUCN Africa Conservation Forum, which ran from June 24 to June 28.
Kpaiseh emphasized Liberia’s dedication to conservation, revealing that the government has pledged to protect at least 30% of the nation’s forests by establishing protected areas.
He highlighted the pressing threats from poaching and trafficking, which endanger species such as forest elephants, pangolins, western chimpanzees, and timneh parrots.
Stressing the importance of sustainable development, Kpaiseh noted that tourism is a key focus of President Joseph Boakai’s administration.
He assured attendees that Liberia is determined to dismantle criminal networks involved in wildlife crimes, ensuring perpetrators face justice.
“Distinguished member states of the Lusaka Agreement Task Force, there is still a greater need to strengthen capacities of member states, promote transboundary collaboration and cooperation among countries,” Kpaiseh stated.
He also praised the Lusaka Agreement Taskforce and the Kenyan government for their continued partnership with Liberia in addressing forestry sector challenges.
