Monrovia, Liberia, September 2, 2024 – The World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have launched a joint technical implementation support and field supervision mission for the Smallholder Agriculture Transformation and Agribusiness Revitalization Project (STAR-P). This mission will cover five key project implementation counties: Montserrado, Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, Margibi, and Nimba.
The primary objectives of the mission are to review STAR-P’s ongoing implementation, enhance its execution, and address any emerging challenges. The mission will pay particular attention to the project’s financial management, procurement processes, and adherence to environmental and social safeguard standards.
Leading the World Bank delegation is Osman Gyasi Kadir, Senior Agriculture Economist and Task Team Leader. The IFAD team is headed by Operations Officer Johnson Kolubah. Representing the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) are Deputy Minister for Regional Development, Research, and Extension, Moses R. Gbanyan, and Deputy Minister for Administration, Antoinette F. Dukuly. Key representatives from both the STAR-P and the Rural Economic Transformation Project (RETRAP) are also participating, including National Project Coordinator Galah Toto and STAR-P Operations Manager Stephen Marvie.
As part of the mission, the teams will conduct field visits to selected project beneficiaries in Montserrado, Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, Margibi, and Nimba counties. These visits, scheduled for September 2-3, 2024, will provide firsthand insights into the project's progress and its impact on the ground.
Funded by the World Bank and IFAD, STAR-P is a critical initiative aimed at transforming Liberia’s agricultural sector by strengthening value chains for key crops, improving market access, and fostering agribusiness development.
This joint mission highlights the continued commitment of the World Bank, IFAD, and the Liberian government to enhancing agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers across the country. The outcomes of this mission are expected to significantly contribute to the success of STAR-P, ensuring that the project meets its objectives and delivers sustainable benefits to the people of Liberia.