The Governments of Japan and Liberia have formalized an exchange of notes, marking the donation of a consignment of assorted rice valued at 400 million Japanese yen, equivalent to approximately 3 million United States dollars. This generous contribution is part of Japan’s Kennedy Rice (KR) Food Aid program and is intended to be monetized by the Liberian government to support various socio-economic initiatives that are not covered by the national budget. The official signing ceremony took place on Thursday, September 12, 2024, in the Minister’s conference room at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, hailed the signing ceremony as a significant step in deepening the partnership between Japan and Liberia. “Today is a very important day for us as a government because it signifies another step that the government and people of Japan have taken to deepen our relationship. You have continued the journey with us on the path to food security,” she remarked.
Foreign Minister Nyanti highlighted the central role rice plays in the lives of Liberians. “As Liberians, our love for rice is not hidden, but beyond that, we cherish our collective prosperity. We are committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that the children of Liberia can compete globally.”
She stressed that for Liberia to meet the Sustainable Development Goals, it must address key socio-economic indicators essential for sustainable development.
Foreign Minister Nyanti acknowledged the importance of Japan’s Food Assistance program to Liberia’s government and its ARREST Agenda. “Your Rice Aid helps us address critical issues, ensuring that the people of Liberia have a fair chance at shared prosperity. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.’s ARREST Agenda is clear, with Agriculture, including rice security, being the first pillar.”
Foreign Minister Nyanti also highlighted Liberia’s agricultural potential, noting the country’s rich arable land ideal for crop production, especially rice. She expressed confidence that with the continued support of Japan and other partners, Liberia can achieve self-sufficiency in food production and even extend aid to other nations. She called on Japan not only to provide food aid but also to help build the capacity of Liberians through training, technology transfer, and the provision of essential tools.
Foreign Minister Nyanti expressed optimism that with the right support, Liberia could significantly advance its partnership with Japan, in line with their shared principles. Concluding her remarks, Foreign Minister Nyanti reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to strengthening its engagement with Japan. “We want to strengthen our engagement to ensure a closer working relationship and a stronger partnership.”
She also took the opportunity to seek Japan’s support for Liberia’s bid for a Non-Permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
During the event, Japan’s Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Mochizuki Hisanobou, reflected on the bilateral agreement established in 2008 between Japan and Liberia to address food security concerns. “Since 2008, Japan has remained steadfast in its commitment to helping Liberia improve its food situation,” Ambassador Hisanobou stated.
He emphasized Japan’s dedication to the KR food assistance program, highlighting the significance of rice to many Liberian households. “For a lot of Liberian households, rice is not only a staple food but a source of sustenance. I am pleased to note that Japan continues to implement this program annually in close cooperation with the Government of Liberia.”
Ambassador Hisanobou also underscored the Japan Food Assistance program as a sustainable approach to enhancing local rice production and addressing rice shortages in the country. He noted that this initiative aligns with the agricultural objectives of the ARREST Agenda under the leadership of His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed Japan’s technical support to Liberia’s agricultural sector through projects such as the Japan-Liberia Padthe dy and Seed Rice Project and called for a stronger partnership between the two nations in the field of food security.
The ceremony concluded with Foreign Minister Nyanti, as Dean of the Cabinet, extending heartfelt thanks to the government and people of Japan on behalf of His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., and the people of Liberia for their continued support.
