FAO launches technical mission to boost agricultural and rural statistics in Liberia

In a strategic move to improve Liberia's agricultural data management, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) kickstarted a 10-day technical mission in collaboration with Liberia’s Technical Working Group (TWG). This partnership, which includes the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) and the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), is set to launch the Liberia Strategic Plans for Agricultural and Rural Statistics (SPARS) under the aegis of the Global Strategy to Improve Agricultural and Rural Statistics (GSARS-II).

The series of events began with an enlightening briefing from FAO's representative, Madame Bintia Stephen Chicaya. An immersive technical workshop at the Ministry of Agriculture in Gardnerville followed this. Emmanuel Kapee, speaking on behalf of FAO, accentuated, "In our rapidly evolving world, the power of accurate data in crafting impactful policies, especially in the agricultural sector, cannot be understated."

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Jlopleh Wiagbe from the Ministry of Agriculture added, "Harnessing global expertise is not just an option; it's a necessity for Liberia's agricultural future."

Further adding to the discussion, expert Maria Fortes contributed invaluable insights, adding depth and perspective to the discussions, which promised a robust blueprint for Liberia's agricultural progression. Highlighting the mission's success, a two-day event dedicated to the validation and public presentation of the LSPARS roadmap was held, drawing in participants from diverse state and non-state entities within the agricultural and rural sector. The roadmap, a result of intense discussions and deliberations, was presented with optimism and foresight. The mission's agenda included intensive sessions with the TWG, leading to the development of the SPARS roadmap. This roadmap was validated and later presented to national partners, aligning with GSARS's goal of establishing a coordinated agricultural statistical system that addresses existing information gaps.

The GSARS initiative is a joint effort by FAO, UNECA, and PARIS21, and is supported by funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the European Commission. As this kickoff event draws to a close, it paves the way for broader, strategic advancements in Liberia's agricultural sector. The forthcoming steps will focus on nurturing the groundwork laid during this mission, fostering data accuracy and promoting sustainable growth in the sector.