By Precious D. Freeman
At a recent fundraising event held at the City of God International Church in the Duport Road Shara Community, the Executive Director of Hope for Nature Kids (HNKids), Madam Whymah-Garbo, underscored the urgent need to preserve Liberia’s wetlands amidst growing concerns over their misuse.
Madam Whymah-Garbo highlighted the severe environmental and health issues arising from improper use of these vital ecosystems. “The misuse of wetlands, including indiscriminate garbage disposal, is not only degrading our environment but also posing significant health risks to our communities,” she stated.
She called on the government to adopt stringent and coordinated measures to safeguard these critical areas.
She also emphasized the economic potential of wetlands, noting their capacity to generate significant revenue through tourism, if managed correctly.
However, she warned that without proper regulations for waste management, these areas could face further environmental hazards.
During the event, which aimed to raise funds for HNKids’ legacy projects, Madam Whymah-Garbo stressed the importance of educating children about environmental conservation.
The fundraising event was attended by representatives from the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), the Society for the Conservation of Nature of Liberia (SCNL), and the Multi-stakeholder Forest Governance Accountability Project (MFGAP).
“Children are the future policymakers and advocates for nature preservation,” she said. HNKids is working to foster young environmentalists in Liberia through nature and e-clubs established in schools.
The occasion featured cultural performances and activities by children involved in HNKids’ programs.
Madam Whymah-Garbo concluded by urging all Liberians to join efforts in maintaining a clean and green Monrovia. “Preserving our natural environment is a collective responsibility,” she affirmed.
Founded in 2019, Hope For Nature Kids is dedicated to promoting conservation among children aged 3-17 in Liberia.
The organization focuses on developing human and natural capital through research, advisory services, and project implementation, with the aim to cultivate a new generation of conservationists and environmentalists in Liberia.
