President Joseph N. Boakai has declared agriculture as the backbone of Liberia’s economic independence, as he officially opened the National Agriculture Fair (NAF) 2025. The President vowed to deepen investment in roads, mechanization, and farmer empowerment to ensure the country feeds itself.
Speaking Friday, December 12, 2025 in Nimba County, the Liberian leader described the fair as more than an exhibition of produce, calling it “a celebration of who we are as Liberians” and a reflection of the nation’s resilience and potential. Drawing from his experience as a former Minister of Agriculture, Boakai explained that Liberia’s fertile soil and hardworking farmers remain its greatest assets, but warned that production without market access limits growth.
He stressed that his administration is prioritizing feeder road rehabilitation to connect rural communities to markets, schools, and health facilities. He cited recent economic gains to underscore agriculture’s growing impact; noting that Liberia’s economy expanded by 4.0 percent last year, with agriculture contributing significantly.
Boakai disclosed that rubber production rose by nearly 18 percent, while rice output increased by 8.5 percent, attributing the gains to improved policies, better roads, and renewed government focus on farmers. The Liberian leader announced plans to establish 13 fully operational agricultural mechanization service centers nationwide by 2026, a move he said will ease the heavy labor burden carried largely by women, who make up more than 60 percent of Liberia’s agricultural workforce. “Mechanization is not only about machines; it is about dignity,” he emphasized.
The President urged the gathering to see agriculture as a modern, technology-driven sector offering opportunities in agribusiness, data, logistics, and innovation. He also thanked international partners, while insisting that Liberians must ultimately drive and sustain their own agricultural future. “As we feed ourselves, we free ourselves, formally opening the National Agriculture Fair 2025 and calling on Liberians to unite around agriculture as the foundation for national pride, prosperity, and lasting development,” he said.
