(Ganta, Nimba County, December 3, 2024)– The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has awarded its Gbarpolu County inspection team a cash prize of $1,000 and a certificate of recognition for their outstanding performance in enforcing environmental laws in 2024.

The award was presented during the closing session of a two-day training for EPA and Land and Mines inspectors in Ganta, Nimba County. The training aimed to enhance the inspectors’ capacity to uphold Liberia’s environmental protection and management laws.

Speaking at the event, EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo praised the Gbarpolu team for their commitment and exceptional efforts. “Recognizing the hard work of our inspectors is vital, and moving forward, the EPA will introduce an annual award program to celebrate outstanding contributions to environmental protection,” Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo announced.

The award was received by Maxin G.Y. Zaza, head of the Gbarpolu County inspectors. In his remarks, Mr. Zaza expressed gratitude to the EPA leadership for the recognition, highlighting the significance of the gesture. “This is the first time something like this has happened at the EPA. This certificate and cash prize have motivated us to do even more. We can assure the EPA that we will continue to work diligently to protect the environment,” he stated.

Mrs. Grace Biah, head of Gender at the EPA, also applauded the Gbarpolu team for their efforts and encouraged them to maintain their dedication to environmental protection.

The award marks a significant step in the EPA’s efforts to boost morale among its inspectors and encourage excellence in the enforcement of environmental laws. Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo reiterated the agency’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding exceptional service annually.