[Monrovia, Liberia, October 21, 2024]—The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) has welcomed a supervision team from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to assess ongoing agricultural projects in Bong, Nimba, and Lofa counties. Over the course of two weeks, the team will evaluate the progress of key initiatives, including the Tree Crop Extension Projects (TCEP I & II) and the Building Climate Resilience Project (BCRP).
During the launch of the mission, IFAD Country Director Pascaline Barankeba emphasized the importance of innovative approaches in project implementation. "We must go beyond business as usual and elevate Liberia's agricultural development," she stated. Madam Barankeba also highlighted that the team’s mission is to introduce strategies that have proven successful in other countries, aligning them with Liberia’s National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP).
She further announced a two-year no-cost extension for TCEP II, underscoring the significance of the cocoa sector in Liberia’s agricultural landscape. "This additional time offers an opportunity to fully realize the project’s potential, making a lasting impact with the remaining resources," she added.
She also urged implementing partners to submit timely reports, stressing that delays could hinder the progress of the projects.
Deputy Minister for Planning and Development David K. Akoi, speaking on behalf of Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, expressed deep appreciation for IFAD’s continued support. “IFAD is a cornerstone of our agricultural development efforts. We are grateful for their contributions to both the Ministry and the nation,” Minister Akoi said. He emphasized the importance of establishing clear baselines for project monitoring, adding, "We need to track our progress to provide accurate reports and ensure transparency."
Minister Akoi also announced stricter financial accountability measures, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to transparency in project funding. "It will no longer be business as usual. We will hold everyone accountable for the funds they receive," he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the IFAD supervision team, Dan Martin reiterated their commitment to supporting project success with a focus on sustainability. "Our goal is to facilitate progress and ensure long-term impact. We are here to assist, not to audit or criticize," Martin said. He also noted the team's emphasis on developing exit strategies and ensuring the sustainability of project infrastructure, given that several projects will conclude in two years.
The mission will include a week of field visits and another week of stakeholder engagements to foster collaboration and enhance regional project outcomes.