In a bid to boost local rice production and reduce Liberia’s reliance on imports, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), in partnership with the Agriculture and Infrastructure Investment Company (AIIC), has launched the ‘Liberians Feed Yourselves Agenda—Paddy Rice’ initiative.
The program, introduced in Foya, Lofa County, is aimed at empowering local rice farmers by purchasing paddy rice directly from them.
Under this initiative, the MOA will buy 50 kg bags of paddy rice from farmers for USD 16.00.
The AIIC will then process and package the rice for local distribution, increasing the supply for domestic consumption.
The program not only guarantees fair prices for farmers but also aims to create a market for locally produced rice, bolstering the country’s food security and economic stability.
Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander J. Nuetah first became aware of the challenges facing rice farmers during a tour of Lofa County in May. Farmers voiced their concerns over stockpiled rice due to price disputes and a lack of buyers. Dr. Nuetah emphasized the need for a diversified market that would go beyond institutional buyers, allowing farmers to establish their brands and access better pricing opportunities.
This initiative is a key component of President Joseph Boakai’s goal to reduce Liberia’s reliance on imported rice by 70% before the end of his term. By creating a sustainable and reliable income stream for farmers and ensuring a consistent supply of locally grown rice, the program is expected to have a significant impact on the national economy.
The ‘Liberians Feed Yourselves’ initiative represents a major step towards strengthening Liberia’s agricultural sector and promoting local production as a means of fostering long-term economic growth and food security.
