By Domingo Dargbeh
Agriculture Minister Dr. Alexander Nuetah has announced an ambitious plan that could see farmers producing enough rice to feed the nation within the next two years.
In an exclusive interview over the weekend, Nuetah disclosed that the Ministry has put strong mechanisms in place to empower farmers to produce more food for local consumption.
For that reason, he said, government has worked with partners strengthening agricultural infrastructure, boosting productivity, and ensure food security.
Mr. Nuetah said the Ministry in collaboration with authorities at the Ministry of Public Works, is currently constructing farm-to-market roads in the “Bread Basket Counties” of Bong, Nimba, and Lofa.
These counties are known for their rich soil, and high agricultural potential.
Nuetah explained that the new roads will make it easier for farmers to transport their produce to markets, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve income for rural communities.
“We are intentional about achieving this goal. Our farmers deserve the opportunity to reap the rewards of their hard work. We are building systems that will help them bring their products to the markets,” Nuetah told reporter.
He said similar farm to market road projects will soon be expanded to other counties as part of government’s long-term agricultural development plan.
Nuetah added: “There has already been a steady increase in domestic rice production over the past year, leading to a decline in rice imports.”
This, he said, is a clear indication that farmers are capable of transforming the country food economy if given the necessary support.
On another development, Dr. Nuetah announced that Mainland China Group, will soon begin the construction of a factory to produce cassava starch, a major value-added product that could boost exports and create jobs for Liberians.
He also spoke of how China Union, a well-known mining company, has ventured into agriculture for the first time to improve the agricultural sector.
“This is a new era for the country agriculture,” Nuetah said.
he further that the Ministry has also invested in technology; something which will enable the sector to monitor farmers.
With these initiatives underway, the Ministry remains optimistic to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production; a goal that has eluded the nation for decades.
If realized, this would mark a major turning point in Liberia’s agricultural history, reducing dependence on rice imports, and ensuring that farmers truly feed their own citizens.