Liberia Ready to Contribute to Global Food Security Movement -Boakai Says Agro-Industrial Development Program Underway

MONROVIA – Liberia’s Chief Executive, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, has averred that Liberia stands ready to contribute to the global movement for food security by sharing its vision and experiences in building an inclusive, resilient, and transformative agrifood system—one that can deliver sustainable food security and nutrition for Liberians not just today, but in the future.

Delivering the keynote address at the World Food Forum 2024 held in Rome, Italy

October 14, 2024, Boakai reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to reducing GHG emissions by 64% below the projected business-as-usual level by 2030 consistent with the country’s revised 2021 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

“In doing so, we reaffirm our dedication to environmental sustainability, with 10% of the reduction unconditional and 54% dependent on international support,” the Liberian leader told delegates at the forum.

He added: “Liberia is a vital net carbon sink, absorbing more greenhouse gases (GHGs) than it emits, and proudly contains over 40 percent of West Africa’s remaining rainforest. While we remain proud of our contributions to addressing global warming, we must also recognize the importance of our dependence on the soil for our food security and economic development.”

He lamented the fact that Africa, a land abundant with natural resources and agricultural potential, tragically finds itself at the epicenter of food insecurity crisis., quoting FAO reports which states, amongst other things, that millions of people across this diverse continent, and many other parts of the world face acute food shortages.

“The stark reality is that, despite its fertile soils and vibrant cultures, Africa is beset by complex challenges such as climate change, conflict, economic instability, and inadequate infrastructural investments in agriculture,” he further noted.

Such factors, he stressed, have not only aggravated the food crisis but have also deepened vulnerabilities within communities, limiting their access to adequate nutrition and the means for improving their lives.

He called on agriculture stakeholders to prioritize funding for agricultural innovation and sustainable farming practices.

According to the Liberian leader, by equipping farmers with the right tools, knowledge, and resources, “we can increase crop yields and diversify production, ensuring farmers can feed their families and lift themselves out of poverty”.

The told conferees that Liberia’s agricultural sector is vital to the country’s economy, accounting for 28.9% of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and providing a livelihood for over 68% of our population. Development in food and cash crops, fisheries, and livestock can drive rapid growth in the next few years through sustainable practices and improved inputs.

He emphasized: “We will focus on food crops, fisheries, and organic cash crops like palm oil and cocoa, which have a positive impact on food security and local commerce. Our vision for sustainable agriculture and food security is simple but ambitious.

“It requires that we purposefully invest in sustainable value chains that promote agricultural productivity, reduce food loss, enhance processing capabilities, improve market access, and develop inclusive agribusiness models that empower smallholder farmers, women, and youth.”

He disclosed plan by his administration to put under cultivation some 100,000 hectares of land initially to meet local demand and later increase to 300,000 hectares to meet the West African market.

The agricultural plans will be accompanied by plans for the processing/milling, refining, and marketing of the oil and downstream processed products, the president said.

Boakai said, looking toward the future and preparing “Good Food for All, For Today And Tomorrow” – the theme of the Forum, “we must act with urgency, determination, and focus, targeting the following areas:  Support for Local Food Systems: Let us commit to bolstering local food production networks. By investing in rural infrastructure — such as roads, markets, and storage facilities — we can improve supply chains and decrease post-harvest losses. Supporting local farmers’ cooperatives and smallholder initiatives will empower communities and foster resilience.”

Another focus recommended the Liberian President is the promotion of Climate Resilience: Climate change which je considered an undeniable reality and a significant threat to food security.

“We must adopt and implement climate-smart agricultural practices and invest in research for drought-resistant crops that can withstand changing weather patterns, ensuring our food systems remain stable in the face of environmental uncertainty,” the president said, further calling for strengthening Social Safety Nets since in moments of crisis, vulnerable populations often suffer the most.

He asserted that it is imperative that stakeholders broaden social protection programs that can provide direct support to those most at risk of food insecurity.

Ensuring access to nutrition for children, pregnant women, and the elderly is essential to break the cycle of poverty and malnourishment, Boakai said.

He called for Global Collaboration and Partnerships, adding: “We cannot face challenges alone. We must engage in cross-border collaborations, share best practices, and foster partnerships between governments, civil society, private sector stakeholders, and international organizations. United, we can take dedicated actions to create sustainable food systems that not only feed our nations but lay the foundation for enduring peace and prosperity.”