President Joseph N. Boaka, in a move to sell his ARREST agenda, is calling on African leaders to collectively collaborate, aim at addressing food and mineral security challenges across the continent.
The President also emphasized the critical need for a united action in these sectors which he said is key for African countries economy, highlighting the paradox of Africa’s wealth in natural resources against its persistent poverty.
Speaking at the Food and Mineral Security Forum during the Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul, Boakai asserted, “Africa has 65% of the world’s uncultivated minerals, yet we still wallow in poverty.”
He at the same time further used Liberia as an example, as to how the country is a prime example of how natural wealth has been exploited by concession companies with minimal developmental benefits.
Boakai also reiterated his government’s commitment to the summit theme: “challenging African leaders to take collective action in leveraging technology and improving mineral security on a global scale.”
He stressed that cooperation with Korea in these transformative sectors should focus on developing evidence-based policies to enhance mineral security and ensure sustainable development.
“The importance of improving mineral and evidence-based policies cannot be overstated and this cooperation will empower African leaders to make informed decisions, ensuring that the natural wealth of our people is harnessed to improve their lives” he said.
The President further believes that initiating food and mineral security through technological advancements and human-centric approaches will combat malnutrition, hunger, and climate change.
Boakai also maintained that it will improve infrastructure in these sectors, boost production, and promote sustainable agriculture amongst various African countries with Liberia of no exception on the Continent.
He emphasized, “Mineral security can be guaranteed when we adopt policies that ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness. Validating concession agreements must drive reform initiatives, transform mineral security, and reduce poverty in a broader context.”
President Boakai at the same time called for reforms that prioritize the interests of the African people, ensuring that the exploitation of natural resources translates into tangible benefits for local communities.
He stressed the need for policies that protect the environment and promote equitable growth, and intoned, “By working together and learning from partners like Korea, we can create a future where Africa’s natural wealth is used to better the lives of its people.”
Meanwhile, the Food and Mineral Security Forum during the summit in Seoul, brought together leaders and experts from both Africa and Korea to discuss ways to enhance cooperation and address shared challenges.
Boakai passionate call to action also underscores the urgency of developing robust strategies to ensure food and mineral security, paving the way for sustainable development across the continent.
