FAO leads the way in transforming Liberia's agriculture sector

Monrovia - In a groundbreaking initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture launched the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP) in Monrovia on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, with crucial support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This strategic partnership underscores FAO's commitment to advancing agriculture and fostering economic growth in Liberia.

During the launch event, His Excellency President Joseph Nyumah Boakai praised FAO and its partners for their instrumental role in developing the NADP, highlighting its potential to drive economic progress and reshape Liberia's agricultural sector. The NADP, known as the Liberia Feed Yourselves Agenda, is set to revolutionize agriculture, playing a key role in boosting economic development and ensuring food security in the nation.

FAO Representative in Liberia Bintia Stephen Tchicaya expressed deep appreciation to the Liberian government for the collaborative opportunity, emphasizing President Boakai's dedication to agricultural advancement. She said FAO hired four individuals as consultants from various institutions, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Central Agriculture Research Institute (CARI), University of Liberia, and a senior expert from FAO Investment Center to support in the crafting of the NADP. This effort she notes, underlines FAO's commitment to sustainable agricultural development in Liberia.

The six-year plan not only focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity but also aims to address key challenges faced by farmers and stakeholders. Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah commended the NADP for its comprehensive nature, particularly its strategic emphasis on rural infrastructure, technology adoption, and market access, which signifies a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture in Liberia.

As Liberia embarks on this transformative journey, stakeholders are urged to rally behind the NADP and work collectively towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. FAO Liberia's unwavering commitment to supporting Liberia's agricultural growth through technical expertise and collaborative partnerships marks a significant step towards eradicating hunger and fostering economic prosperity through agri food system transformation to achieve better production, better nutrition, better environment and a better life – leaving no one behind in the country.