The Vice President of the European Investment Bank (EIB) for West and Central Africa Public Sector Team, along with a four-member delegation, met with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai in Rome. The meeting focused on discussions about a proposed fifty million dollar concessional loan aimed at developing Liberia's agriculture sector, particularly rice production.
Madam Gelsomina Vigliotti, Vice President of the EIB, stated that talks are ongoing between the bank and the Government of Liberia regarding this financial assistance. President Boakai expressed appreciation for the initiative and highlighted the necessity to rebuild Liberia's agricultural systems and infrastructure, which were severely impacted by fourteen years of civil conflict.
President Boakai emphasized collaboration with local Liberian structures to ensure successful project implementation. The delegation assured that if discussions conclude swiftly, the project could commence soon due to an urgent need for increased rice self-sufficiency in Liberia.
The team also mentioned plans to involve expertise from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to enhance loan effectiveness. They praised Liberia's National Agricultural Development Plan but stressed fast-tracking stalled projects for improved efficiency.
President Boakai underscored rehabilitating irrigation systems as vital and advocated working with knowledgeable individuals within the sector. Agriculture Minister Dr. Alexander Neutah highlighted selecting locations that maximize project outcomes, emphasizing market access and irrigation as critical factors.
Madam Vigliotti reaffirmed EIB's commitment to supporting Liberia's agricultural development. President Boakai encouraged effective coordination among partners for successful project execution.
The EIB delegation included Vice President Gelsomina Vigliotti, Bio Economy Division Head Felipe Ortega Schllingmann, West and Central Africa Public Sector Unit Head Svetia Stoeva, and Senior Economist Blanca Amado Nin.
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