By: Geeplay Ezekiel Geeplay
Monrovia, Dec. 5, 2024 – The Minister of Agriculture, Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, has called on Liberians to support local farmers by attending the upcoming National Agriculture Fair (NAF).
The event, scheduled for December 5-7, 2024, at the Booker Washington Institute (BWI) campus in Kakata, Margibi County, aims to showcase the achievements of Liberian farmers and promote food security in the country.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) regular press conference on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Dr. Nuetah highlighted the significance of the fair in addressing food insecurity and encouraging self-reliance in agriculture.
Dr. Nuetah emphasized that the NAF serves as a platform for Liberians to directly purchase from local farmers, fostering growth in the agriculture sector.
“The President has emphasized the importance of Liberians feeding themselves. To achieve this, we must encourage our local farmers who are working hard to produce the food we eat. I urge everyone, both in rural and urban areas, to attend the fair in Kakata and buy from them,” he stated.
Outlining the structure of the three-day event, he said that on day one, farmers will participate in discussions on critical agricultural issues and present their expectations and proposals to the government, particularly in driving the National Agriculture Development Plan and on day two, the official opening ceremony, will be graced by President Joseph N. Boakai Sr.
He added that on day three, outstanding farmers will be recognized and awarded for their dedication and contributions to the sector.
Dr. Nuetah disclosed that the government has ramped up investments in agriculture, particularly in rice production, over the past year to reduce reliance on imports and enhance food security.
“For Liberia to achieve food security, we must produce more of what we consume. This is why the government has prioritized increasing local rice production and other food staples,” he explained.
He also shared insights into the history of the National Agriculture Fair, which began in 1956 and has been held intermittently over the years, with the most recent event in 2021.
He said that the fair, themed: “Promoting Agriculture for Food Security, Nutrition, and Sustainable Development,” will provide a unique opportunity for farmers to showcase their products, exchange ideas, and seek support from the government and stakeholders.
Dr. Nuetah expressed optimism about the event’s impact on Liberia’s agricultural landscape, calling on all citizens to rally behind local farmers.
According to him, the NAF is expected to draw participants and attendees from across the country, which marks a significant step in Liberia’s journey toward sustainable agriculture and food security.
In a related development, the Liberian Government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have signed a €5 million grant agreement, marking a significant milestone in the country’s current agricultural journey. Funded by the European Union through IFAD, this grant is expected to scale up agro-ecology approaches under the STAR-P project.
At the signing ceremony, IFAD Country Director Madam Pascaline Barankeba emphasized IFAD’s unwavering commitment to Liberia’s agricultural growth, while Finance Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan and Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah expressing gratitude, highlighted the grant’s transformative potential for Liberian farmers.
This collaboration is more than a financial investment—it’s a step toward empowering farmers, increasing food security, and strengthening Liberia’s economy. Together, we’re building a brighter future for agriculture in our country.
Edited By: Jesefu Morris Keita
