Issues Stay Orders In 2 Monrovia Suburbs–Johnsonville And Gardnersville, But Will The New Measure Be Sustained?
By Alfred Kollie alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
MONROVIA – The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has begun its inspection of wetlands across Montserrado County, in a bold move to curb illegal wetland occupation and construction ahead of the rainy season.
The sweeping exercise, which many Liberians are watching how long it will last, targets communities where unauthorized development on protected wetlands poses serious environmental risks, including flooding and erosion.
As part of the campaign, the LLA has issued immediate stay orders halting ongoing wetland developments in Johnsonville and Gardnersville.
According to officials, the intensified inspections come in response to a wave of illegal backfilling and construction activities, which the LLA says threaten both public safety and Liberia’s fragile ecosystems.
LLA Chairman Samuel F. Kpakio and team on their field mission
In Johnsonville, a Chinese construction company is accused of illegally backfilling land to construct a concrete factory, while in Gardnersville’s Dry Rice Market area, two Liberians are reportedly attempting to erect residential and commercial structures without the required permits in the wetland areas.
During an inspection tour on Thursday, May 8, 2025 led by LLA Chairman Samuel F. Kpakio, the Authority reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing environmental and land-use laws.
Kpakio emphasized that any construction in wetlands without proper authorization will face demolition and potential legal consequences.
“This time, the Liberia Land Authority, with its task force, will be very proactive. We will not reward anyone for violating the law,” Kpakio declared. “Many of them have been warned not to build in wetlands, but they continue to ignore regulations. We will not compromise.”
Wetlands in areas such as the 72nd Community, Neezoe, Kings Farm Community of Carysburg, Johnsonville, Gardnersville, and Caldwell were inspected by the team headed by LLA boss.
These communities have seen a sharp increase in illegal constructions, which the LLA warns could endanger lives and the environment, especially during heavy rains.
Chairman Kpakio stressed that Liberia’s environmental laws, developed and approved by the LLA Board of Commissioners, must be respected.
He called on the public to secure permits through the LLA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before undertaking any wetland development.
The LLA plans to establish a 150-member task force in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to continuously monitor and enforce wetland protection regulations.
Caldwell Commissioner Ibraham Sarpee also pledged his office’s full support to the LLA, committing to raise awareness in local communities about the ecological importance of wetlands and the legal consequences of violating land use policies.