Margibi County – The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, arrived in Liberia on Thursday, July 3, marking the first official visit of an IAEA chief to the country.
By Francis G. Boayue
Mr. Grossi’s visit to Liberia is the result of a joint initiative by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Health, with support from the Ministries of Mines & Energy and Agriculture.
Grossi was received at the Roberts International Airport by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, headed by Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo. His visit aims to strengthen cooperation between Liberia and the IAEA in the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival, Grossi said the IAEA is focused on supporting Liberia in key sectors such as health, agriculture, energy, and environmental protection through the use of nuclear technology.
“This visit is a milestone in our partnership,” Grossi said. “We are committed to supporting Liberia’s national development goals using peaceful nuclear science.”
The IAEA has been working with Liberia on initiatives to improve agricultural productivity, enhance healthcare delivery, support strategic energy planning, and bolster environmental monitoring. Grossi noted that these collaborations align with the country’s broader development objectives.
In recent years, Liberia has increased its engagement with the IAEA and ratified several international legal instruments under the agency’s framework, demonstrating its commitment to the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology.
During his visit, Grossi is expected to hold meetings with senior government officials and tour project sites where nuclear applications are being used or considered. Discussions will focus on expanding future cooperation and ensuring that nuclear science is safely integrated into Liberia’s development strategy.