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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unveiled its Annual Report for 2024, showcasing a year of unprecedented achievements and milestones in environmental protection and sustainable development.
Among the key highlights, the EPA surpassed its internal revenue target by a remarkable 66 billion leones, reaching a total of 148 billion leones. This is a significant achievement, reflecting the agency’s growing financial stability and capacity to fund environmental initiatives. Additionally, the agency mobilized nearly $13 million in project funds, underscoring its success in attracting international financial support for its environmental programs.
Field inspections were a focal point in 2024, with the EPA conducting 980 inspections and successfully prosecuting 40 court cases related to environmental violations. The agency also issued 62 new Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) licenses, while providing training to 230 project proponents to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
One of the EPA’s major achievements this year was the demolition of 136 illegal dredges, which marks a significant step in curbing environmentally harmful activities in the country. Furthermore, the agency formulated three new environmental regulations, enhancing its ability to protect Sierra Leone’s natural resources.
Another milestone was the launch of the first-ever e-mobility strategy, with the introduction of 15 solar-powered “kekes” (motorized tricycles) aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transportation options. The EPA also developed a National Pollutant Inventory, laying the groundwork for the National Plan for Pollution Prevention (N3P), a long-term strategy to reduce pollution across the country.
In terms of international funding, the EPA secured a $28.6 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), marking a significant achievement in its efforts to combat climate change and support sustainable projects. The EPA also awarded nearly 1 billion leones in grants to winners of the Youth Innovation Challenge, fostering innovation and youth engagement in environmental protection.
On the gender front, the EPA took strides to empower women in the environmental sector by training and equipping 300 female refrigerant technicians. The agency also opened the first Centre of Excellence for sustainable cooling systems in Bo, further advancing its commitment to climate-friendly technologies.
Other accomplishments include the finalization of regional office designs, the launch of new digital platforms to streamline project management and grievance redress, and the development of a 3-year plan for the newly established Centre for Environmental Data and Statistics (CEDAS).
With a growing social media presence of over 10,000 followers, the EPA’s reach and engagement have expanded, helping to raise awareness about environmental issues across Sierra Leone.
As the EPA looks ahead to 2025, its success in securing new resources, increasing capacity, and fostering innovation has set a strong foundation for continued progress in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s environment for future generations.
