[Monrovia, Liberia, September 10, 2024] – Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah has held a crucial meeting with beneficiaries of the Emergency Rice Production Offensive (ERPO) project at the Ministry of Agriculture. The gathering brought together 139 farmers from Bong, Margibi, Gbarpolu, and Montserrado counties, focusing on assessing the project's progress and ensuring the effective use of resources.
Funded by the African Development Bank, the ERPO initiative launched in 2023 is one of the government’s strategies to bolster rice production across Liberia in line with the National Agriculture Development Plan. The project plans to cultivate rice on 1,694 hectares of virgin lowland, with a goal of producing 2,000 metric tons of clean rice. This initiative is crucial in reducing Liberia’s reliance on rice imports and strengthening national food security, providing a viable solution amid the country’s current economic challenges.
During the meeting, Dr. Nuetah underscored the importance of practical fund usage, urging beneficiaries to align their efforts with the project's goals. “Any money we give you, you will be held accountable for it. We will praise those who do well and expose those who do not. Agriculture will not be the same,” Dr. Nuetah stated, highlighting that successful farmers would be recognized.
The Minister emphasized the need for a transformative approach to agriculture, urging farmers to view farming as a business to improve their livelihoods and significantly contribute to national food security.
He also addressed concerns about land ownership, encouraging farmers to resolve disputes at the community level and keep the government informed of any ongoing issues. “Those of you who have contentious issues with land ownership, try to handle them. The government has invested in these areas, and we expect you will be there growing rice every year,” Dr. Nuetah advised.
The Minister also announced plans for a major rice processing plant in Bong, which will purchase, process, and market Liberian rice, and an ambitious target of introducing five Liberian rice brands to the market next year. 
In addition to financial support, the ERPO project provides improved seed rice varieties, insecticides, herbicides, spraying cans, and fertilizers. This initiative marks a significant advancement towards sustainable agriculture and economic growth in Liberia, reflecting the government's commitment to empowering farmers and ensuring long-term food security. Furthermore, Dr. Nuetah’s call for dedication and strategic resource use underscores the government's resolve to enhance the agricultural sector and secure Liberia's food future