By Laurina B. Lormia
President Joseph Boakai has encouraged Liberians to adopt the principle of “Liberians Feed Yourselves” as a national priority to address the country’s reliance on food imports.
This initiative aims to boost local food production by leveraging Liberia’s fertile soil, abundant natural resources, and hardworking citizens.
The event took place over the weekend at the Booker Washington Institute (BWI) campus in Kakata, Margibi County.
Held under the theme “Promoting Agriculture for Food Security, Nutrition, and Sustainable Development,” it brought together farmers, government officials, international partners, and other agricultural stakeholders to celebrate Liberia’s agricultural sector and outline strategies for its transformation.
Making remarks, President Boakai emphasized that reducing dependence on imports would ensure food security and stimulate economic growth, calling on all stakeholders to support efforts to harness the country’s agricultural potential for the benefit of current and future generations.
According to him, Liberian farmers are the backbone of the nation’s progress, “we recommit ourselves to addressing the challenges that hinder our agricultural growth while celebrating the resilience and innovations of our esteemed farmers.” President Boakai said.
He stated that his government has to build a Liberia that feeds itself and thrives on its agricultural strengths. Adding, let us rise to this occasion and ensure that Liberia nourishes its people and sustains its development for generations to come.
President Boakai underscored the importance of his administration’s ARREST Agenda in achieving Liberia’s development, with agriculture as a central pillar.
He outlined plans to boost smallholder productivity by providing resources and training, expand agricultural value chains to improve market access and enhance climate resilience to ensure sustainable food systems.
These initiatives, he said, are crucial for driving economic growth and ensuring food security in the country.
He emphasized his government’s commitment to food security, poverty reduction, and sustainable development through the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP 2024–2030).
He extended gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture and organizers of NAF 2024 for their dedication and patriotism.
He also called on international partners, private sector players, and financial institutions to collaborate with Liberia in transforming its agriculture sector.
Meanwhile, recognizing the potential of young farmers, President Boakai emphasized his Government’s dedication to creating opportunities for youth participation in agriculture.
He reassured them of continued support in training, funding, and access to technology.
“We are prioritizing youth and women in agriculture and they are the future of Liberia’s agricultural sector in building a self-sustaining economy,” President Boakai noted.
President Boakai concluded by reaffirming his commitment to advancing policies that prioritize agriculture and sustainable development.
