Liberia, represented by the Ministry of Agriculture, has joined the Korea-Africa Food and Agriculture Cooperation Initiative (KAFACI).
This indicates a significant step towards agricultural development in Liberia.
The announcement was made during the 6th KAFACI General Assembly, where Liberia’s Agriculture Minister, Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, highlighted the nation’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security through this strategic partnership.
Minister Nuetah expressed gratitude for Liberia’s inclusion in KAFACI, praising the organization’s role in addressing global challenges like food insecurity and agricultural development.
The Minister stressed the vital role of agriculture in Liberia’s economy, noting that the sector contributed 30% to the nation’s GDP in 2023 and remains a key source of employment, engaging 70% of the workforce, 75% of whom are women.
Despite its importance, Liberia’s agricultural sector faces challenges such as low investment, inefficient production systems, and limited access to finance.
Retrospectively, the government, led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, launched the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP 2024-2030).
This plan aims to strengthen research, promote value-chain development, enhance productivity, and improve agribusiness finance, targeting investments in 19 agricultural value chains.
The partnership with KAFACI is a demonstrative endeavor for Liberia to realize sustainable development plans in the agricultural and food sectors.
The Minister also expressed optimism about Liberia’s collaboration with KAFACI, focusing on digital innovation, youth engagement in agriculture, and strengthening supply chains.
“These efforts are aligned with Liberia’s National Agriculture Development Plan and are expected to boost productivity and create more opportunities for women and youth.”
As Liberia joins KAFACI, Minister Nuetah highlighted the upcoming 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, which will address global challenges such as food security, health security, and climate change.
He called for strengthened partnerships to ensure sustainable agriculture and global food security.
The Korea-Africa Food & Agriculture Cooperation Initiative (KAFACI) is a collaborative platform established in 2011 to promote sustainable agriculture, food security, and economic cooperation between Korea and African nations.
KAFACI facilitates partnerships in research, development, and the sharing of knowledge and technologies to address agricultural challenges and support the growth of member countries.
