By: G. Bennie Bravo Johnson, I.
The World Food Programme has concluded a major consultation workshop in Monrovia to design Liberia’s new Country Strategic Plan (CSP) for 2026–2030. The gathering brought together key government ministries, international partners, civil society organizations, local farmers, and other stakeholders in a united push to align with national priorities and deliver lasting impact.
Held on Monday, September 29, 2025, WFP Country Director Mary Njoroge stressed that the new CSP must be evidence-driven, nationally owned, and fully aligned with Liberia’s ARREST Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. She underscored the program’s central role in supporting government priorities and the aspirations of the Liberian people.
According to her, the achievements under the current CSP demonstrate real progress, from school meals with the Ministry of Education, to resilience building and market access for smallholder farmers with the Ministry of Agriculture, and strengthening health and nutrition systems with the Ministry of Health. “We have stood with Liberia during crisis, from floods to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that essential support reached those who needed it,” Njoroge emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Gender, Deputy Minister for Children and Social Protection Garmai Tokpah described the moment as pivotal in the collective pursuit of a hunger-free future. She highlighted that the World Food Programme’s strategic plan reflects a shared commitment to saving and changing lives. “Let’s harness our collaborative spirit to drive meaningful impact, inclusive of the AAID agenda,” Tokpah declared.
She further stressed that empowerment is critical and non-negotiable. “Let’s support each other in implementing our plans, ensuring that no one is left behind, and everyone has access to nutritious food; because, history will judge us tomorrow,” she said. Tokpah reemphasized the ministry’s commitment to collaboration, calling for innovation, creativity, and accountability in confronting hunger and building sustainable food systems.
For his part, David Akoi, Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Agriculture, insisted that the new strategy must be anchored in empowering local ownership and fostering national pride in Liberia’s own-grown food. He argued that the quality, aroma, and cultural identity of Liberian produce must be preserved while strengthening rural economies and domestic food systems. “We are glad that WFP is prioritizing locally produced rice and staples into school meals to boost children’s nutrition and enhance the economic viability of smallholder farmers,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) praised WFP for its historic support during national crises, recalling the 2024 flood disaster that left families displaced. He noted that WFP contributed $1.5 million, the largest single support to the agency in its recent history. The NDMA chief appealed to WFP to embed disaster management financing in the new CSP, warning that without proper resources for prevention, post-disaster recovery will continue to undermine Liberia’s development gains.
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the food assistance branch of the United Nations and the world’s largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger and promoting food security. Established in 1961 following a proposal by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower to the UN General Assembly, it began as a three-year experimental program. After successful responses to emergencies, including the Iran earthquake and a hurricane in Thailand, WFP was made permanent in 1965.
Headquartered in Rome, Italy, WFP now operates in over 120 countries and territories, delivering food assistance in emergencies while supporting communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. It uses innovative methods such as cash transfers, food vouchers, and advanced logistics to reach millions efficiently. In 2020, WFP received the Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts in combating hunger and contributing to peace in conflict-affected regions.
