Dr. Yarkpawolo Calls for Unity, Cultural Preservation Among Kpelle People
By: Emmett Yarsiah Jr.
KAKATA, Margibi County – Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has called on Kpelle people across Liberia and Guinea to remain united and work toward cultural preservation, peace, development, and national progress.
Delivering the keynote address during the National Kpelle Unification Day celebration in Kakata, Margibi County on Saturday, May 16, Dr. Yarkpawolo said Kpelle unity should not be used against other groups but instead serve as a force for national development and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking under the theme, “Kpelle Unity for Cultural Renewal, Peace, Development, and National Progress,” he stressed that as Liberia’s largest ethnic group, the Kpelle people carry a major responsibility in promoting peace, leadership, and national unity.
Dr. Yarkpawolo urged Kpelle people to rise above county, clan, and political divisions, noting that true unity requires cooperation, humility, respect, and service to the common good. He emphasized that Kpelle identity goes beyond geographical boundaries, as Kpelle-speaking communities are spread across several counties in Liberia and neighboring Guinea.
The EPA Executive Director also highlighted the importance of preserving the Kpelle language, culture, music, and oral traditions. According to him, losing a language means losing history, wisdom, and identity. He encouraged parents to teach their children the Kpelle language and called on schools, churches, mosques, and media institutions to support cultural preservation efforts.
He further stressed the need for women and youth empowerment, describing women as key pillars in preserving culture and maintaining families and communities. He called for greater support for girls’ education, youth mentorship, and leadership development.
Dr. Yarkpawolo also urged Kpelle leaders and professionals to establish scholarship and development initiatives aimed at supporting education, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and rural empowerment.
On environmental protection, he warned against illegal mining, forest destruction, and river pollution, noting that land and natural resources must be protected for future generations.
As part of his address, he proposed a “Kpelle Unification Compact” built around six commitments: unity among Kpelle people, preservation of the language, responsible leadership, youth and women empowerment, environmental protection, and support for Liberia’s national unity.
He concluded by calling on Kpelle people to transform unity from mere celebration into meaningful action that benefits communities and strengthens Liberia as a whole.
