The Minister of Agriculture J. Alexander Nuetah says the ministry will need US$50 million in the 2025 National Budget to boost food production and empower farmers across the country. Speaking Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at the Ministry of Information regular press briefing, Minister Nuetah said the ministry has already sent their budget to the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) and a proposal to the 103 lawmakers, seeking their support to get funds in the 2025 budget.
He said the funds’ aim is to implement the National Agricultural Plan and empower local farmers, particularly those involved in Rice production. Minister Nuetah said this will enable the cultivation of over 50,000 hectares of agricultural produce, with a strong focus on boosting rice production.
He said US$1.6 million has been allocated for land development for 139 farmers across four counties including Bong, Gbarpolu, Margibi, and Montserrado, and contracts have already been signed under the Emergency Rice Production Agency, a subset of the Ministry of Agriculture aimed at addressing food security challenges.
“This proposed budget boost is not just a financial request; it represents a strategic commitment to transform Liberia’s agricultural landscape. By prioritizing local production and reducing reliance on imports, the government aims to ensure food security and improve livelihoods for farmers across the nation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Minister Nuetah said there has been an increase of interest from investors in cassava processing, although the identity of those investors remain undisclosed. He said this development will help to enhance income for local farmers engaged in cassava cultivation across the country.
