The agricultural sector in Liberia is facing scrutiny, and recent rumors regarding the halting of the agricultural matching grants program have raised concerns among stakeholders. However, at a press briefing, the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, clarified these misunderstandings. Dismissing the claims, he explained that any temporary suspension of the program is not due to internal policy changes but is a necessary measure in response to a request from the World Bank. This request aims to conduct a thorough review to ensure that the program aligns with the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP), which is vital for the country’s agricultural strategy and development.
Dr. Nuetah emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture is not deliberately withholding grants but is fully cooperating with the World Bank, which is currently conducting a mid-term review of the Rural Economic and Transformation Project (RETRAP). This comprehensive assessment looks at over 20 grant proposals received under RETRAP to evaluate their alignment with the objectives outlined in the NADP. The minister’s statements aim to instill confidence that the program is merely undergoing a systematic review rather than experiencing a complete stoppage. He stressed the importance of ensuring that support for agricultural initiatives is in line with national goals.
In addition to RETRAP, Minister Nuetah mentioned that 14 proposals have been approved for consideration under the Smallholder Agriculture Transformation Project (STAR-P). These proposals are crucial for smallholder farmers and agribusinesses. However, the World Bank has requested a revisitation of specific review processes which contributed to the recommendations for these projects. This highlights the collaborative nature of the program and the continuous efforts being made to refine and enhance the support systems for the agricultural sector. The ongoing mid-term review is seen as an opportunity to strengthen these necessary processes.
The initiatives under review include matching grant components designed to foster growth within the agricultural community. They play a crucial role in the government’s strategy to bolster agricultural development and stimulate economic growth. The Liberia Agriculture Commercialization Fund (LACF), which is partly financed through matching grants from the World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is pivotal in enhancing financial access aimed at private-sector investment. This investment is critical for increasing agricultural productivity and aiding in the commercialization of agriculture across Liberia.
Minister Nuetah also informed stakeholders that the Ministry is currently reviewing the contract with the financial firm managing the LACF. This review is expected to wrap up by November 2024. The goal of this evaluation is to guarantee that the LACF operates efficiently and effectively, ultimately meeting its objectives of improving financial access for farmers and supporting agribusinesses. This proactive approach indicates the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability and success of agriculture-focused programs, which are essential for revitalizing the rural economy.
In summary, while addressing concerns over the agricultural matching grants program, Minister Nuetah assured that the temporary suspension is part of a responsible review process to align with national development goals. By cooperating with the World Bank and other stakeholders, the Ministry of Agriculture is taking important steps to ensure that the agricultural programs not only continue but also evolve to meet the changing needs of farmers and the economy. The ongoing evaluations and partnerships aim to create a more robust agricultural framework that supports smallholder farmers and promotes sustained growth in Liberia’s agricultural sector.
