Liberia, UNDP launch $8.9m coastal defense project to protect Sinoe shoreline communities

Published: May 23, 2025

GREENVILLE, Sinoe County – The Government of Liberia, in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has officially launched the construction phase of a US$8.9 million Coastal Defense Project in Sinoe County, aimed at protecting vulnerable shoreline communities from the growing threat of coastal erosion.

The initiative, funded through a grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is being implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of Liberia’s broader climate change adaptation and environmental resilience strategy.

Speaking during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing this week, Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Daniel Sando described the project as a critical national response to the impact of climate change.

“The Sinoe County Coastal Defense Project is designed to protect vulnerable communities that are increasingly affected by severe sea erosion,” Sando said. “This initiative is a significant step in our national response to climate change.”

Communities at Risk

Several coastal communities in Sinoe County have experienced devastating land loss, property damage, and threats to livelihoods as sea levels continue to rise and storm surges intensify. Officials say these conditions have made immediate intervention imperative.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the project was held earlier this week in Greenville and brought together officials from the Liberian government, EPA representatives, UNDP staff, local leaders, and community residents.

Infrastructure and Ecosystem Solutions

According to the EPA, the project will involve the construction of physical coastal defense structures such as sea walls and barriers, alongside the implementation of ecosystem-based solutions to stabilize shorelines and reduce future erosion.

Such nature-based approaches may include mangrove restoration, coastal vegetation planting, and the creation of natural buffers.

Local residents welcomed the development, voicing optimism that the project will safeguard their homes and secure their livelihoods.

“This project gives us hope,” one Greenville resident said. “We have been watching the sea take away our land for years. We hope this will finally protect our community.”