By: Anthony Q. Jiffan, Jr
MONROVIA – Margibi County Senator Nathaniel McGill has called on the Liberian Senate to summon the Minister of Agriculture to provide an update on the Star-P and RETRAP programs, which were launched under the Ministry of Agriculture with funding from the World Bank.
The initiatives, totaling approximately $200 million, aims to support local farmers and expand agribusiness throughout the country.
In a communication addressed to the Senate President Pro Tempore Senator McGill raised concerns regarding the transparency and accountability of the programs, specifically, that “$40 million was allocated under the previous administration for granting micro loans to small farmers across the country.
The Margibi County Senator is requesting a comprehensive breakdown of the programs, including how funds have been allocated, distributed, and utilized.
He is also seeking clarity on the number of farmers or beneficiaries who have received loans and their locations to ensure nationwide inclusivity.
Additionally, Senator McGill is asking for detailed information about the current implementation and management processes for both initiatives.
“Given that these programs involve loan disbursement, it is critical that we track their progress and ensure that the funds are being used effectively to benefit our farmers and strengthen the agricultural sector,” Senator McGill emphasized.
The communication has been forwarded to the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Public Accounts, which have been tasked with reporting back to plenary within one week.
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