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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is DUCOR addressing the solid waste crisis in Liberia?

The solid waste crisis in Liberia has direct and dire consequences for the health and safety of its citizens. In addition, the omnipresence of mountains of trash deters outside investment, erodes public confidence and undermines the stability of government. By developing comprehensive and sustainable waste management solutions, DUCOR will make a vitally important contribution to the recovery and reconstruction effort underway in Liberia.

What is DUCOR's experience in solid waste management in Liberia?

In 2005, DUCOR conducted a campaign to educate and promote proper waste collection, disposal and hygiene in Monrovia’s Sinkor Old Road Market area with a grant from the European Commission. In 2006, DUCOR removed stockpiles of rubbish and rotting garbage from the roadways and vacant lots of Careysburg City in Montserrado County with a quick impact grant from the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).

Who are the principals behind DUCOR?

Francis W. Nyepon is the founder and President of DUCOR. Mr. Nyepon was born and raised in Liberia. In 1977, Mr. Nyepon moved to Boston, Massachusetts where his family resides. Mr. Nyepon administers DUCOR with a small team of dedicated managers lead by Mr. Alaric Tokpa and Joseph Somwarbi. In addition, Mr. Nyepon has assembled a team of experts in waste management, operations management, public policy, public health, workforce development, business development and the law to enhance the development of the organization.

Why target public markets in the initial phases?

Public markets are the center for sustaining life where almost every Liberian visit at least once a day. DUCOR is rolling out its waste management operations in three phases beginning in public markets where the need is most pressing and where sustainable development can begin. Public markets are also where DUCOR can have an immediate and highly visible impact on the population, thereby garnering public support for better hygiene promotions, improve social behavior, enhance environmental protection, providing clean and healthy communities by removing health hazards. This measured approach allows DUCOR to modify strategies, adjust operations and carefully build capacity to assure on-going success and sustainability.

How does DUCOR’s approach to waste management align with the recommendations of the 2004 UNICEF “Waste Management Plan for Monrovia” and the 2007 UNEP Assessment of Solid Waste Management in Liberia?

DUCOR’s mission is to provide proper and effective solid waste management in order to ensure clean communities free from contamination, pollution and public health hazards. Moreover, DUCOR is specially referenced in the UNEP study as an example of the type of non-government participation that ought to be sought. It is determined to engage average Liberians by removing hazards from the waste stream.

How does DUCOR’s mission align with the Republic of Liberia’s Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy?

DUCOR Waste Management’s mission aligns with the Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy in two ways. First and foremost, DUCOR is a “people” organization. DUCOR will be investing heavily in human capital to rebuild and recreate a waste management infrastructure. The nature of the business and the Liberian economy demands this approach. Secondly, by improving living conditions, reducing risk to public health and cleaning up the landscape, DUCOR will help to foster sustainable community development, enhance productivity and economic growth.

How much money is required to launch and operate DUCOR?

Phase I requires $425,000 to cover the cost of equipment, labor, training and landfill Fees.

What are the consequences of failure to address waste management with an approach that is comprehensive, long-term and sustainable?

Failure to act will result in a spiraling health and environmental crisis. Piles of trash throughout peri-urban and rural communities will further mar the landscape, contaminate safe water supply and expose the public to deadly disease carrying pathogens. The consequential impact extends beyond human health to the health of business, education, tourism, trade and economic development in general.

What effect will DUCOR’s success have on Liberia and Liberians?

DUCOR will have a profound effect on the country’s physical and mental health. Liberians will be able to walk into and through Monrovia’s markets without stepping over and around heaping piles of rotting trash. Children will be able to play safely without risk of exposure to contamination, pollution and breading grounds for deadly disease vectors.