The government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have broken ground for the construction of US$80,000 agro-processing plant.
The project will significantly boost local agriculture. It will be implemented in Bopolu City, Gbarpolu County, Western Liberia.
The facility, which will be built on a 2.5-acre of land in the outskirt of the city near the Agriculture Office. When completed, the project will focus on cassava and rice processing with the aim to enhance the productivity and livelihood of farmers.
The ceremony was held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, in Bopolu City.
At a colorful groundbreaking ceremony, local officials, among them, the county superintendent, were thrilled as they danced to traditional songs to the pleasures of onlookers.
The county officials expressed gratitude to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, and the UNDP family for “a timely intervention to uplift our people.”
“This project will ease the burden of farmers in processing their crops and add value to their produce. We are therefore thankful to Pres. Boakai and our international partners for putting our people first,” Bopolu City Mayor Kuah said.
Associate Building Construction (ABC), with Frederick M. Fobeh serving as the project manager, is erecting the structure.
Fobeh confirmed that work has already begun and is expected to finish within three months.
“We have the manpower and technical capacity to complete this project in time,” Fobeh assured the donors.
“We are grateful to UNDP for awarding us this contract through a competitive bidding process,” he said.
Assistant Internal Affairs Minister for Technical Services, Oramdo F. Armah, commended UNDP for supporting rural developments.
Armah also issued a stern warning against theft of construction materials.
Boye Johnson, UNDP Project Manager of the Accelerated Community Development Programme, underscored the agency’s commitment to local empowerment.
“Our goal is to improve the lives of ordinary citizens through community-driven development,” Johnson said.
“UNDP Liberia remains a strong partner to the government in achieving national development priorities across sectors, including sanitation, agriculture, economic development, and culture.”
Ministry of Public Works Director for Community Services, Madam Bynor G. Young, called the residents to take ownership of the project.
“This is your project. It belongs to the community. Its success depends on how well it is protected and maintained,” she noted.
Meanwhile, Deputy Agriculture Minister for Extension, Moses Robert Gbanyan, described the initiative as a “shared responsibility.”
“This is a people-centered project, we thank the President and UNDP for giving Bopolu City this opportunity,” Gbanyan said.
The agro-processing plant is expected to serve as a major boost to food security and economic empowerment for farming communities in the region.