Liberia Commemorates World Water Day 2025 with a Focus on Urgent WASH Challenges
On March 25, 2025, Liberia marked World Water Day under the theme “Preservation, Protection & Utilization of Our Water Resources.” The commemoration highlighted the urgent need for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions, a pressing issue that continues to challenge the country.
Hon. George WK Yarngo, CEO of the National WASH Commission, emphasized the severity of Liberia’s water crisis. He stated, “Despite Liberia’s abundant water resources, only 10% of the population has access to safely managed drinking water, less than 5% have hand-washing facilities, and open defecation remains widespread.” He noted that these challenges are worsened by limited funding, particularly following the withdrawal of U.S. government support. Hon. Yarngo called for increased government investment in WASH projects, particularly in Montserrado and Margibi counties, and urged continued efforts to improve water access and sanitation nationwide.
The day’s events featured a lively parade and an indoor ceremony, with Andrew Brooke from UNICEF delivering the keynote address. He emphasized that water is a fundamental human right, crucial for children’s survival. Brooke also pointed out that inadequate WASH conditions contribute significantly to child mortality in Liberia. He urged stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to address the country’s water, sanitation, and hygiene challenges.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Madam Kaustella K. Sarsia, Representative of the African Development Bank, and Grace Kargbo, Regional Director World Hope International. Both praised the work of the WASH Commission and reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in addressing WASH issues in Liberia.
Dr. Josiah Joekai, Director General of the Civil Service Agency (CSA), also underscored the urgent need for improvements in Liberia’s water system. He advocated for the WASH Commission to enhance water infrastructure, increase tariffs on imported water, and invest in water production with the potential for exporting water to neighboring countries. Dr. Joekai expressed UNICEF’s readiness to assist but emphasized that Liberia must demonstrate greater commitment in addressing these challenges. He pledged to collaborate with Hon. Yarngo to convince President Boakai to sign the WASH Compact for Liberia’s benefit. Dr. Joekai also stressed the importance of providing updated data before the next World Water Day celebration, emphasizing that progress must be measurable and tangible.
Representative Thomas Goshua of Grand Bassa County, District #5, and Chairman of the WASH Legislative Caucus, also attended the event. He pledged to work with his colleagues to increase the WASH budget and support efforts to improve water and sanitation in Liberia.
The 2025 World Water Day in Liberia reinforced the urgent need for better WASH solutions. With strong commitments from leaders and partners, the event sparked hope for lasting improvements in water access and sanitation.
