The Ministry of Agriculture says it has disbursed $500,000 to farmers across eight counties.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, this initiative is part of the Public Sector Investment Project (PSIP), a national program to boost rice production and reduce imports.
The project has a total budget of $4 million to support the cultivation of rice, cassava, maize, oranges, avocados, and coconuts.
Each farmer receives $1,000 per hectare, with 60% allocated for direct cash support to cover land clearing, preparation, and nursery development, and the remaining 40% designated for weeding and harvesting.
Additionally, farmers will shortly receive essential inputs such as fertilisers, seeds, and pesticides.
Deputy Minister Moses Gbayan stated, “This is the first time in Liberia’s history that farmers receive direct compensation.”
Assistant Minister Folton Blasin added, “This is a step toward modernisation and self-sufficiency. Liberia must reduce its reliance on imported rice.”
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Antoinette Dukuly advised, “Do not use this money for school fees or motorbikes. Every cent must go into your farms.”
We have a country plagued by chronic unemployment. Yet, most of our youth are not interested in agriculture, which, according to the World Bank, presents the most significant opportunities of any sector in Africa.
Thank you, Hon. Minister, Dr. Alexander Nuetah, Ministry of Agriculture Liberia – MOA Liberia Sekou Hussein Dukuly Mamaka Bility Steve Marvie Grow with Dukuly