Monrovia, February 19, 2026 – What began as an ordinary workday for Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo turned into an emotional tribute as employees of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) staged a surprise ceremony to honor his two years of leadership at the institution.
The Executive Director arrived at the office shortly after 7:00 a.m., following his usual routine. After attending to administrative matters, he departed for a scheduled radio interview at 9:00 a.m., unaware that staff members were coordinating a recognition event in his absence. Even as he prepared to move on to another engagement, a message prompted him to return to the EPA headquarters, citing the arrival of international visitors.
Upon his return, he encountered not visiting dignitaries but a jubilant workforce gathered in celebration. Employees filled the premises with singing, applause, and dancing, transforming the agency grounds into a scene of appreciation and unity. Neither his driver nor his security personnel had prior knowledge of the plan.
A brief but heartfelt program followed, during which staff members commended Dr. Yarkpawolo for what they described as transformative institutional reforms over the past two years. Representatives of the workforce highlighted tangible milestones achieved under his tenure, including the acquisition of a permanent facility for the agency, improved operational mobility through additional vehicles, salary adjustments, and the strengthening of internal cohesion.
According to the employees, the agency has also experienced heightened national visibility, more consistent enforcement of environmental regulations, and stronger collaboration with both local stakeholders and international partners. They credited the leadership for fostering an organizational culture rooted in professionalism, teamwork, and accountability.
Staff members further emphasized that morale within the EPA has significantly improved. They described the Executive Director as approachable and attentive, noting that his management style encourages dialogue, inclusiveness, and institutional growth.
“The EPA today reflects renewed direction and confidence,” one representative stated during the program. “We feel valued, motivated, and committed to advancing environmental protection in Liberia.”
As part of the ceremony, employees presented Dr. Yarkpawolo with a ceremonial gown as a symbolic gesture of respect and appreciation for his leadership.
Visibly moved by the unexpected tribute, the Executive Director expressed gratitude and humility. Fighting back tears, he attributed the agency’s progress not to individual accomplishment but to collective effort.
“This is the working of God,” he said, describing the moment as deeply humbling.
He underscored that the gains recorded over the past two years were made possible by the dedication of the entire EPA team—from senior management to field officers across the country.
“I may carry the vision, but the real work is done by all of you,” he told the gathering. “You are the ones building the EPA into what it is becoming.”
Dr. Yarkpawolo encouraged continued unity and collaboration, urging staff to sustain the momentum achieved thus far. He called on both leadership and employees to remain focused on strengthening environmental governance and advancing the agency’s mandate nationwide.
The celebration not only marked two years of administrative leadership but also reflected a broader institutional shift—one characterized by reform, renewed morale, and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship in Liberia.
