President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. of Liberia has urged the global community to address the escalating food insecurity crisis, especially in Africa. Speaking at the World Food Forum in Rome, President Boakai emphasized the urgency of action against hunger and malnutrition.
“One in five people in Africa go to bed hungry,” he stated, stressing that “the time for action is now, and we have the means to make a real difference.”
Liberia plans to transform its agricultural sector through a sustainable agrifood system aimed at enhancing local food production and improving rural livelihoods. The newly launched Agro-Industrial Development Program will focus on oil palm and cocoa as primary crops, initially cultivating 100,000 hectares with plans to expand.
President Boakai highlighted the need for investment in rural infrastructure to strengthen food supply chains and reduce post-harvest losses. He also called for empowering smallholder farmers and promoting climate-smart agriculture practices.
Liberia aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 64% by 2030 while remaining a net carbon sink. The President underscored the importance of social protection programs for vulnerable populations and urged global collaboration to create a resilient global food system.
The agricultural sector is vital for Liberia’s economy, contributing nearly 29% of GDP and supporting over 68% of its population. The Agro-Industrial Development Program is expected to boost economic growth and attract foreign investment.
An Agriculture Enterprise Development Bank will be established to enhance financial access for farmers. President Boakai concluded by urging global leaders to move beyond rhetoric: “We have the knowledge, the technology, and the resources. What we need now is the will to act.”
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