Community-Based Enterprises in Liberia are appealing to President Boakai due to increased fees by the MCC and EPA, which threaten their operations. CBEs collect household waste for a low fee, necessary for sustaining their services. They seek to discuss policy proposals to enhance waste management practices in the country.
Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs) in Liberia have been established around Monrovia to manage solid waste and address public health and economic challenges. These enterprises collect daily waste from households at a nominal fee of L$50.00, totaling L$800 monthly. This revenue is essential for sustaining operations, paying staff salaries, and repairing equipment.
However, CBEs are now urging President Joseph Boakai to address the financial burdens imposed by the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The MCC has reportedly raised the solid waste operator authorization annual fee to US$450.00, while the EPA’s solid waste operations permit fees have increased to US$840.00. Additionally, Paynesville and Monrovia are considering a tipping fee hike to L$600 per dumping event, significantly impacting CBE operations.
The National Association of Primary Waste Community Based Enterprises (N-A-C-O-B-E) has voiced these concerns, emphasizing the need for Presidential intervention. Secretary General Pastor Z. Augustus P. Yarbah expressed a desire to meet with the President to propose initiatives focused on recycling and composting to boost economic growth, as well as to advocate for the development of a National Solid Waste Management Policy.
Pastor Yarbah stated, “A comprehensive policy is needed to guide the development of a sustainable waste management system. Including investments in waste collection vehicles, transfer stations, and modern landfills is crucial, amongst others.”
Thus, the appeal for intervention rests upon the essential role that a more structured policy and financial relief could play in enhancing the sustainability of solid waste management practices in Liberia.
In conclusion, the community-based enterprises in Liberia are facing significant operational challenges due to increased fees imposed by relevant authorities. Their call for intervention from President Joseph Boakai highlights the urgency for sustainable waste management policies. By addressing these fees and promoting recycling initiatives, the government can facilitate improved health and economic outcomes in the community.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
