The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, in collaboration with national and international partners, hosted a two-day workshop on July 23–24 at Stella Maris Polytechnic University to promote gender equality in climate resilience efforts.

Held under the theme “Empowering Communities through Gender Equality,” the event focused on integrating gender-responsive strategies into Community Action Plans (CAPs) for six climate-vulnerable coastal communities in Sinoe County, specifically in Bafa Bay, Downtown Mississippi, Nanakru, Pungbor, Seebeh, and Tournata.

These areas face increasing threats from sea level rise, erosion, and climate change, exacerbating existing gender disparities.

The workshop is part of the Enhancing the Resilience of Vulnerable Coastal Communities in Sinoe County of Liberia (ERVCCS) project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), co-financed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and supported in-kind by the Government of Liberia.

“By embedding gender strategies into local action plans, we are building inclusive pathways to climate resilience. We deeply value the collaboration with gender experts, community leaders, and government institutions,” said Princess Aminata Blango-Doyah, Project Manager of the ERVCCS initiative.

Blango-Doyah acknowledged contributions from the Sinoe County Women Forum and representatives of the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, who traveled from Sinoe to share their insights.

Speaking on behalf of EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Yarkpawolo, Blango-Doyah emphasized the broader definition of gender, noting it includes not just women and girls, but also youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

“Gender mainstreaming is central to global development efforts. It drives economic growth, reduces poverty, and improves health, education, and household well-being,” she said.

Ms. Chrystal-Angel Wardlow, UNDP Communications and Gender Advocacy Specialist, reiterated the importance of inclusive planning.

“Gender is a cross-cutting issue that is key to successful development and climate resilience and ensuring that every voice is reflected in community action plans strengthens adaptation and empowers marginalized groups,” she said. “

The event brought together stakeholders from agriculture, gender, environment, commerce, and community development sectors, alongside NGOs and ERVCCS project staff.

Through presentations, strategy sessions, and breakout discussions, participants worked to identify gender-specific needs and craft inclusive, community-driven solutions.

This initiative marks a pivotal step toward ensuring that climate action planning reflects the diverse voices and lived experiences of Liberia’s most at-risk populations—and that no one is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.