Liberia’s Wetlands Under Threat: Is the Ramsar Convention Enough to Protect Them?
Liberia, a country rich in biodiversity, is facing a growing environmental crisis as its wetlands—vital ecosystems recognized under the Ramsar Convention—are increasingly under threat. Despite being a signatory to the international treaty since 2003, Liberia’s wetlands, designated as Ramsar Sites, are witnessing alarming levels of encroachment and degradation.
The Importance of Wetlands
Wetlands play a critical role in environmental sustainability. They protect coastlines, mitigate flooding, store carbon, and provide habitats for diverse species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. Liberia’s five internationally recognized Ramsar Sites—Marshall Wetland, Mesurado Wetland, Lake Piso Wetland, Kpatawee Wetland, and Gbedin Wetland—cover approximately 95,879 hectares and are crucial for biodiversity, particularly mangrove ecosystems.
However, these wetlands are now facing unprecedented threats from human activities. Illegal settlements, weak enforcement of environmental laws, and public neglect have left these areas vulnerable. The Mesurado Wetland, for instance, has seen 16 of its 27 islands heavily encroached upon, while the Marshall Wetland is being misused for construction and other activities.
Urban Migration and Encroachment
One of the primary reasons cited for this encroachment is the rapid urban migration in Liberia. People are settling in these wetlands, filling in land, and constructing homes and businesses. In areas like West Point Township, mangrove trees are being cut down and sold to fish dryers, further damaging these ecosystems.
Despite the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) having enforcement powers, little action has been taken to halt the destruction. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai recently issued Executive Order No. 143, aimed at protecting Liberia’s beachfronts, waterways, and wetlands. The order established a taskforce chaired by the EPA and co-chaired by the Liberia Land Authority (LLA), partnering with key government entities to address environmental abuse. Yet, the degradation continues.
International Support and Local Challenges
Recognizing the severity of the situation, international environmental partners have allocated $3.2 million to protect the Mesurado and Marshall Wetlands. However, critics argue that the EPA’s commitments remain largely lip service.
Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, EPA’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of wetlands during the 2025 World Wetland Day celebration in Margibi County. He highlighted their role in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and economic activities but acknowledged the severe threats from human activities.
A Call for Immediate Action
The Ramsar Convention, adopted in 1971 in Iran, promotes the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Liberia’s commitment to this treaty should translate into robust protection measures. Local leaders and residents living near wetlands are often complicit in selling these lands, undermining conservation efforts.
As Liberia grapples with the dual challenges of urbanization and environmental preservation, the need for decisive action is urgent. Wetlands are not just ecological assets; they are lifelines for communities, shielding them from floods and providing essential resources. Without stronger enforcement and public awareness, Liberia risks losing these critical ecosystems forever.
— Reported by Nexio News
