MONROVIA: The Ministry of Transport of Liberia (MOT) on Tuesday November 26, 2024 joined others around the world to celebrate the World Sustainable Transport Day held under the theme: “Promoting Sustainable Mobility for Cleaner, Greener, Inclusive and Resilient Liberia”.
The United Nations General Assembly designated this day to recognize the important role of safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all in supporting sustainable economic growth, improving the social welfare of people, and enhancing international cooperation and trade among countries.
Speaking at the occasion held at the Transport Ministry, Transport Minister Sirleaf Ralph Tyler lauded employees of the Ministry for their support and contribution to the transport sector of the country
“As we commemorate World Sustainable Transport Day in Liberia, we believe that we are paving the way for a future where transport fuels our economic growth, enhances our public health, and protects the environment” he said.
According to him, he see a future where every citizen of Liberia, both present and future generations, has access to safe, reliable, and eco-friendly transport options.
He said as a Minister and an advocate for a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future for Liberia this day, recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, is a vital opportunity for them to reaffirm their commitment to building transport systems that prioritize the well-being of our people and our planet.
“As you may know, the transport sector of Liberia has been the lifeblood of our economy, a vital catalyst for socio-economic progress, and a significant contributor to the cultural and social fabric of our nation” he said.
He however acknowledge a sobering reality that the transport systems, particularly road transport, accounts for approximately 43% of the country’s energy-related greenhouse gas emissions.
“This stark statistic not only underscores the urgent need for transformational change but also highlights our responsibility to our fellow citizens who suffer the detrimental effects of our reliance on outdated, fossil fuel-driven transportation solutions” he noted.
He emphasized that, Liberia is at a critical juncture where rapid urbanization, increased private motorization, and an influx of used vehicles threaten to exacerbate the climate crisis and undermine their existing infrastructure.
“We face escalating air pollution, heavy traffic congestion, and rising public health concerns that disproportionately impact our most vulnerable communities” he noted.
He pointed out that, the looming threat of climate change, illustrated by extreme weather events and their impacts on the roads and access to critical services, demands immediate and decisive action.
“As we observe World Sustainable Transport Day, we recognize the tremendous role of sustainable transport in achieving our Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement” he stated
Speaking further the Transport Minister added that, Liberia’s commitment to reducing transport-related emissions by 15.1% by 2030 is not just a pledge but it is a necessity.
He indicated that, It is essential for improving air quality, enhancing public health, and safeguarding our environmental resources for future generations.
He then reaffirm the Ministry of Transport’s unwavering dedication to creating the enabling environment necessary for the widespread adoption of sustainable transportation solutions.
He stressed that, the Ministry is already making strides to transform our transport systems through several key initiatives including the commissioning of a dedicated green-color plates for electric vehicles and also working with the private sector and relevant actors to develop and implement a specialized Electric Vehicle Policy.
“We recognize the crucial need for accessible charging and battery-swapping infrastructure especially in our urban centers, improved transport network for non-motorized transport including walking and cycling, capacity building and active training opportunities for our local technicians, and nationwide community outreach programs to raise awareness about the benefits of sustainable transport and the urgent need for action against climate change” he said.
Minister Tyler said that the Ministry understand that achieving these transformative goals requires more than just policy-making; it demands collaboration, funding, and active engagement from local and international stakeholders.
He used the occasion to call upon their local and international partners, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organizations to work alongside with them by offering their expertise, financial resources, and innovative solutions to fast-track our efforts in achieving a sustainable transport system.
