-Pres. Boakai launches six-year agriculture development plan
On July 9, 2024, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai officially launched the National Agriculture Development Plan, a six-year initiative aimed at revitalizing Liberia’s agricultural sector and achieving self-sufficiency in food production.
During the launch event, President Boakai urged all Liberians to embrace the call to revolutionize the country’s agricultural industry and make it a central part of their lives. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no one goes hungry, children have access to nutritious meals, and poverty is reduced, leading to a more peaceful and prosperous Liberia.
Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change and economic crises globally, President Boakai highlighted the need to prioritize food security for the nation. He described the NADP as a transformative roadmap, supported by innovative strategies, modern technologies, and strategic investments to secure a sustainable future for Liberia.
President Boakai underscored the significance of agriculture as the backbone of Liberia’s economy and encouraged citizens to actively engage in the sector to drive progress and development. The NADP aims to shift Liberia from a reliance on food imports to self-sufficiency, leveraging the country’s vast agricultural potential to reduce dependence on foreign resources.
The President noted that Liberia currently imports 70% of the rice consumed by its citizens, diverting valuable foreign exchange that could be invested in critical infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation. The NADP seeks to empower farmers with resources, training in modern agricultural techniques, and support for large-scale cooperative farming initiatives to increase productivity and efficiency.
President Boakai emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in agriculture, moving from traditional subsistence farming to sustainable, mechanized practices that attract youth and create smart, profitable opportunities in the sector. He assured stakeholders of his commitment to providing the necessary resources and political will to drive the transformation of Liberia’s agricultural landscape.
In closing, President Boakai called on all Liberians to join forces in this agricultural journey, emphasizing the importance of technological expertise, investment funds, and unwavering commitment from key stakeholders to achieve the goals of the NADP. He urged the nation to seize this opportunity to build a resilient and self-reliant agricultural sector, highlighting that the prosperity of Liberia is intertwined with the success of its agricultural industry.
