The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) held a crucial meeting with members of the Multilateral Environmental Agreements Committee (MICCOM) to discuss a collaborative framework aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s national-level actions in implementing Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs).

The meeting, held in line with Section 66 of the EPA Act of 2022, focused on addressing a range of environmental issues including biodiversity conservation, climate change, waste management, air pollution, and chemical safety. The MEAs are pivotal to aligning Sierra Leone’s environmental policies with global standards.

Dr. Abu-Bakar S. Massaquoi, Executive Chairman of the EPA, emphasized that the session would foster coordinated efforts to tackle environmental challenges, promote compliance with international environmental obligations, and assess Sierra Leone’s progress towards the goals set by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other MEAs.

“This initiative will enhance national coordination, connect local efforts with global environmental standards, and strengthen Sierra Leone’s position in addressing pressing environmental concerns,” Dr. Massaquoi stated.

MICCOM is expected to provide a collaborative framework for these national measures, ensuring adherence to international environmental protocols. Dr. Massaquoi further noted that the committee, chaired by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and deputised by the EPA’s Executive Chairman, will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Sierra Leone’s environmental strategies are in line with the requirements of these agreements.

He concluded by stressing the importance of increased stakeholder participation and the integration of MEAs into existing EPA policy frameworks. Dr. Massaquoi urged committee members to assess the current state of MEA implementation and propose solutions to overcome ongoing challenges.

The outcome of the meeting is expected to strengthen Sierra Leone’s capacity to address environmental hazards and boost its global environmental commitments.