By D Abraham Cooper, Sr.
Grand Gedeh County, long recognized as Liberia’s third-largest forest reserve is on the verge of losing its standing due to rapid depletion and illegal activities.
In an exclusive interview, Mr. B.M. Weah, Managing Director of Region #4 for the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), warned that the county’s once-rich biodiversity is “sliding away” due to unauthorized settlements and illicit resource extraction.
The Burkinabé influx and illegal farming
A primary driver of this environmental crisis is the increasing presence of foreign nationals, specifically from Burkina Faso, within government-protected areas.
Mr. Weah highlighted several critical issues:
Encroachment: Burkinabé nationals are reportedly establishing illegal farms deep within protected zones.
Local Collaboration: Concurringly, some residents living near these protected areas are allegedly providing support to these unauthorized groups.
Environmental Impact: These activities are severely undermining forest conservation efforts and leading to the massive depletion of Grand Gedeh’s natural resources.
SUCCESS IN WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
Despite the challenges, the FDA reported significant progress in wildlife protection. Through a partnership with the Wild Chimpanzee Foundation, a strategic “Petit Cash” initiative was launched to provide economic alternatives to the bushmeat trade.
“We have provided $360 USD in startup capital to individuals in the southeast who were previously involved in the sale of bush meat. This intervention has successfully and hugely reduced the killing of protected animals across the region,” Mr. Weah stated.
LOGISTICAL HURDLES AND THE 2026 OUTLOOK
Mr. Weah acknowledged that Region #4 currently faces a severe manpower shortage, making it difficult to patrol vast forest territories effectively. However, the outlook for 2026 remains optimistic:
Government Commitment: The Government of Liberia has pledged to “vehemently improve” the FDA’s manpower this year to ensure smoother operations.
Partner Support: While equipment remains scarce, international partners have been progressively providing vehicles and essential forestry gear.
Security Synergy: The FDA is currently working with the Liberia National Police to enforce state orders and raise awareness among local communities.
A CALL TO ACTION FOR BORDER SECURITY
Concluding his report, Director Weah issued a formal call to the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) to tighten border controls. He emphasized that preventing the illegal entry of “aliens and foreigners” is essential not just for national security, but for the very survival of Liberia’s forest and wildlife resources.
