Cestos City Hall, Rivercess County – June 23, 2025 – Three coastal communities in Rivercess County are poised to benefit from major conservation and development support following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Conservation International (CI) under the Blue Ocean Program—an initiative focused on protecting Liberia’s vital mangrove ecosystems.
The MOU was signed on Tuesday during a one-day training session held at Cestos City Hall. Representatives from Zeo Town, Zuah Town, and Borkor Point joined CI, the Government of Liberia, and other stakeholders in formalizing a commitment to collaboratively manage and safeguard mangrove environments from ongoing environmental threats.
The event was endorsed by the Rivercess County Superintendent’s Office, represented by Dennis Seeboe on behalf of Superintendent Byron Zahnwea.
Speaking at the occasion, Curtis Jackson, a representative of the Blue Ocean Program, disclosed that the initiative extends to three additional southeastern counties—Maryland, Sinoe, and Grand Kru—where similar conservation and livelihood efforts are underway.
As part of the agreement, CI has pledged to deliver a range of support items within two months. Zeo and Zuah Towns are expected to receive two rice mill machines, one cassava processing machine, a canoe, 200 plastic chairs, 60 cutlasses and axes, and 10 large cooking pots. Meanwhile, Borkor Point will benefit from a coconut processing machine and a canoe for transportation, along with other unspecified materials.
Community leaders have welcomed the initiative. Speaking on behalf of Zeo and Zuah Towns, Alex Zoekpe praised the project for combining conservation with livelihood support, which he said is critical for sustainable development. Similarly, Joseph Toe of Borkor Point expressed gratitude and committed to ensuring that all donated resources are used responsibly.
Both leaders urged residents to take ownership of the project by actively protecting the mangrove ecosystem, which they acknowledged plays a crucial role in preserving local biodiversity and supporting livelihoods.
The Blue Ocean Program is part of a growing effort to address climate change impacts, prevent mangrove degradation, and empower coastal communities through sustainable practices.
