Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs) in Liberia are seeking President Boakai’s intervention regarding increased operational fees imposed by the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These fees hinder their waste collection efforts. CBEs advocate for a National Solid Waste Management Policy to enhance recycling and improve sanitation.
In Liberia, Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs) were established to facilitate solid waste management, significantly improving community sanitation and addressing health risks. Households contribute L$50.00 daily and L$800 monthly for garbage collection, which is intended to support operational costs, including salaries for waste collectors and equipment repairs.
However, a coalition of CBEs in Monrovia seeks intervention from President Joseph Boakai regarding the heightened operational fees imposed by the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The MCC has increased the annual authorization fee for solid waste operators to US$450.00, while the EPA has raised its permit fees to US$840.00. Furthermore, municipalities like Paynesville and Monrovia are planning to impose an additional L$600 tipping fee.
These significant fee increases present major operational challenges for CBEs, prompting them to appeal for presidential action. Pastor Z. Augustus P. Yarbah, Secretary General of the National Association of Primary Waste Community-Based Enterprises (N-A-C-O-B-E), emphasized the need to meet with the President to propose initiatives focused on recycling and composting. These efforts aim to enhance resource recovery, promote waste reduction, and develop a National Solid Waste Management Policy.
Pastor Yarbah articulated the necessity for a comprehensive policy to establish a sustainable waste management system, inclusive of investments in waste collection vehicles, transfer stations, and modern landfill facilities, which remain essential for effective waste management in Liberia.
In conclusion, the rising operational fees imposed by the MCC and EPA are severely impacting the functionality of Community-Based Enterprises in Liberia. The CBEs are urging President Boakai’s intervention to address these financial burdens and promote initiatives for sustainable waste management. Establishing a comprehensive waste management policy, as suggested by Pastor Yarbah, is vital for the future of effective waste management in the country.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
