-For Noncompliance
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has shut down several mineral water factories across Sinkor and surrounding communities for persistent violations of EPA regulations, citing serious environmental and public health concerns.
The closures followed routine and targeted inspections which uncovered that the affected facilities were operating without full environmental compliance, including failure to meet wastewater management standards, improper handling of production by-products, and lack of valid environmental permits as required under Liberia’s environmental laws.
Factories ordered closed include Royalty Aqua Mineral Water Company on Old Road behind Kailondo; Jolly Jolly Mineral Water in Airfield, Lakpazee; Kro-Tou Mineral Water, Gboni Mineral Water, Jafene Mineral Water, and Jan’s Spring Mineral Water, all located in the Airfield area of Sinkor; as well as Mount Wologisi Mineral Water Factory on 20th Street, Sinkor.
According to the EPA, continued noncompliance by these operators poses potential environmental hazards, including groundwater contamination, unsafe disposal of waste, and risks to surrounding residential communities. The agency noted that mineral water factories are required to operate under strict environmental guidelines to ensure that water sources are protected and that production processes do not endanger public health.
The EPA stressed that the shutdowns are temporary but will remain in force until the companies fully address all violations, conduct necessary environmental assessments, and obtain proper certification. The agency also warned that further legal action could be taken against operators who attempt to resume production without authorization.
Meanwhile, the EPA is urging consumers to remain vigilant and to purchase drinking water only from licensed and environmentally compliant producers, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Liberia’s environment and the health of its citizens.
At the same time, the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, has joined other government officials at the Liberia National Infrastructure Conference currently taking place in Ganta, Nimba County.
The conference is being held from January 19 to January 23, 2026, under the theme “Rebranding and Rebuilding Through Reconstruction.” The event brings together government institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders to discuss Liberia’s infrastructure challenges and development plans.
Dr. Yarkpawolo is attending the conference with a team from the EPA, including Mr. R. Baiyezenah Brown, Inspector General of the EPA; Mr. Targen P. Daye, Assistant Director for Environmental and Social Impact Assessment; and Mr. John K. Jallah Jr., Director for Compliance and Enforcement.
Liberia is at a critical stage where infrastructure development is key to economic growth and improved living conditions. Despite having rich natural resources and a youthful population, the country continues to face challenges such as poor road connectivity, limited energy access, weak water and sanitation systems, low ICT coverage, and climate change risks.
Over the past two decades, Liberia has faced major setbacks, including the civil war, the Ebola outbreak, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges exposed serious gaps in infrastructure and highlighted the need for strong, inclusive, and sustainable development.
To address these issues, the Government of Liberia is implementing the ARREST Agenda, which focuses on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. This agenda aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa’s Agenda 2063 and aims to promote inclusive growth and national development.
On the third day of the conference, Mr. Targen P. Daye and Mr. John K. Jallah Jr. will join other panelists to discuss the topic “Building Resilient Infrastructure, Enhancing Road Connectivity, and Integrating Climate Change.” The panel discussion will focus on developing strong infrastructure, improving road networks, and ensuring that climate change issues are included in national development planning.
The conference is expected to provide practical solutions to Liberia’s infrastructure problems, especially in the areas of roads, energy, water and sanitation, ICT, urban planning, and climate resilience. It also seeks to close the gap between urban and rural communities and support sustainable development across the country.
The participation of the EPA highlights the importance of environmental protection and climate consideration in Liberia’s infrastructure development efforts.
