BASSA TODAY Network BTN

22/10/2024

In a recent development, Speaker Fonati Koffa raised alarm over potential corruption in the budget formulation process within the Liberian government. Speaking on Spoon Talk, Koffa expressed concerns about certain members of the 54th Legislature allegedly planning to manipulate the budget for personal gain.

Koffa disclosed that a group of lawmakers would convene in Room 1026 at Boulevard Palace to deliberate on the budget, inviting representatives from government ministries and agencies to review their allocated funds. Shockingly, Koffa revealed that some legislators intended to inflate the budget to receive kickbacks, compromising the integrity of the budget allocation process.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Speaker Koffa stressed the importance of conducting a comprehensive audit within the House of Representatives to investigate and address these alarming revelations. The potential misuse of public funds for personal enrichment has sparked concerns about transparency and accountability within the government's financial management system.

22/10/2024

Urgent! SOS CALL 📞 to SAVE A LIFE! Let’s pray for him and reach out.

Journalist BABISON DAVID HARRIS, former Radio Producer of ECOWAS RADIO, LOVE FM, and UNMIL RADIO is very SICK and needs urgent medical assistance.

Men and women of good heart, including members of the PUL, let’s save his life now rather than sponsoring his FUNERAL ACTIVITIES, and eulogizing him with empty words…..

His contact # 0770426343

Courtesy: Bobby Blayon Addison

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a LIFE by what we GIVE”

21/10/2024

The Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) has officially written the Liberian Anti- Corruption Commission (LACC) to fast track investigation surrounding alleged US$15,000 Bribery linked to the Removal of Speaker Fonati Koffa of the 55th Legislature.

The attached document detailed the institutionally claimed ignorance of the Water and Sewer Corporation.

21/10/2024

Update Report

The County Health Officer of Grand Bassa, Dr. Jude Wesseh has confirmed that Family members of the escaped Monkey Pox Patient have finally turned him over to the Medical Authorities of the County.

The information comes minutes after it was alerted that the family had agreed to persuasively transport the 20 years old man to Buchanan following interventions by the County.

As it stands, the patient is under medical treatment.

21/10/2024

BREAKING NEWS...!!!!

In BASSA TODAY, information reaching our desk reveals that Family members of the escaped Monkey Pox Patient are in Buchanan to turnover the 20 year old man to the County Health Authority.

Accordingly, it took the consistent efforts of the County Administration through the District Leadership along with Medical Practitioners to have convinced the family; a collective approach that has resulted in this willingness to ensure public safety.

Particularly on October 18, the County Health Officer confirmed that Grand Bassa recorded its first Mpox Case in the Zondo community, District four and the patient was immediately placed under Isolation; but escaped from the temporary Isolation Unit days after said pronouncement was made.

Note : The photo only portrays Mpox

21/10/2024

In BASSA TODAY, two Cities and a Township have been empowered to accelerate Sanitation activities in the County as Tourism takes the lead in the Land of Hospitality.

The five tricycles presented by Senator Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence to the Mayors of Buchan City and Wayzohn City as well as the Commissioner of Harlandsville Township serve as strengthening tools to help maintain tardiness in Grand Bassa County and trigger community involvement.

Buchanan City walked away with three tricycles, while both Harlandsville Township and Wayzohn City collected one each; all of which amount to US$22,500; a package Senator Lawrence announced as her initial support to Sanitation activities that would foster Tourism.

As widely known, Tourism is one of the pillars upholding the development AGENDA of the Government currently being administered by His Excellency, Joseph Nyumah Boakai.

20/10/2024

Please enjoy the Bassa Version of the National Anthem of the Republic of Liberia.

20/10/2024

20/10/2024

October 20, 2024)--

In BASSA TODAY, several Leaders and Stakeholders have received prestigious honor from the "One Bassa Initiative" TEAM on account of their countless development contributions and quality Leadership to and in Grand Bassa.

The Honorees range from Pro-tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Superintendent Julia K. Bono, Senator Gbehzohngar Milton Findley, Businesswoman Mrs. Kuma Faiyah, Magic FM Manager, Christopher T. Yarwoe, Senior Parliamentarian of the Mano River Union Youth Parliament, Linda Playma Lloyd, Buchanan Seaport Director, Jonathan L. Kaipay, Businessman Alex Zayway and Hon. Julius Jacob Smith.

Others were Montoserrado Senator, Abraham Darius Dillon, Grand Bassa Electoral District three, Representative Matthew Joe and Electoral District five Lawmaker, Thomas Alexander Goshua.

The Initiative, according to the organizing Body headed by Du-ben Cleon, Rev. Arthur Gaye, Daniel Biah and Radio Dukpa Manager Alexander G. Musa Jr; is not only to recognize the Honorees, but to motivate them to prioritize reconciliation and unity in the County.

The Bassa Gospel Choirs, Religious Authorities and the Media were in attendance as Pro-tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence registered commendation for the excellent thought by the "One Bassa Initiative" TEAM; an assertion that was accompanied by a resounding encouragement for leaders and citizens to direct their focus to maintaining Peace and desist from negative messaging in the public and via the media.

"We have missed numerous investment.and development opportunities only because of the way people speak on Radio in our County "; the Pro-tempore intimated at the Honoring program at the Buchanan City Hall.

The occasion also created the platform for interaction amongst citizens, stakeholders and governmental Leaders; thus laying aside political and religious garments in order to strengthen a United Grand Bassa.

Additionally, Superintendent Bono expanded on the Unification message by pointing out the significance of Peace and the effects of divisiveness; a reason for appropriately placing the County and National interests above personal benefits.

19/10/2024

October 19, 2024 ) --

IN BASSA TODAY, a Team of Leaders and stakeholders has concluded an assessment tour in the Upper Buchanan -Beach environment ahead of the "ONE BASSA FESTIVAL".

Pro-tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence led the delegation with Hon. Gabriel Y. Montgomery, the County Information Officer, Onesimus Garway Sr, Former Superintendent Levi Demmah, Hon. Mark Vabram and others.

The "ONE BASSA FESTIVAL" is expected to be held beginning November 28 to 29 this year; an Event will assemble all Bassa Speaking Counties and display different Bassa traditional Games in addition to the Dumboy Festivity.

18/10/2024

LIBERIA'S FIRST LADY KARTUMU BOAKAI CUTS RIBBON OF RENOVATED SCHOOL IN GRAND BASSA

October 18, 2024)

IN BASSA TODAY, the mother of Liberia, Her Excellency, Kartumu Yartai Boakai has cut the ribbon leading to the unveiling of the renovated Joseph M. N. Gbardyu School in Neekreen Township, Electoral District two.

The Renovation work is to the credit of a Humanitarian, Madam Linda Crevey and AFCONS.

Madam Boakai's presence goes beyond the dedication; a moment that serves as Beacon of Hope for the School and the County; a confidence that was actualized through the presentation of US$2,000 along with bags of Rice, footwear, copybooks and other medical and educational related materials.

During her Official statement, she lauded the project implementers and assured School Administrative Authorities her Office's preparedness to advance the School facility and contribute to quality Education in Grand Bassa County.

Madam Kartumu Boakai also launched the School Feeding Program in addition to her commitment on behalf of His Excellency Joseph Nyumah Boakai to prioritize Education across the Country.

Like the Pro-tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, the First Lady recognized the resilience and sacrifices of the Principal, Naomi K. Baryogar and her staff; thus pointing out the potential of female in Leadership.

At the occasion, Pro-tempore Lawrence appreciated the School Administration and their Partners; outlining her impacts in the Educational sector and plan to intervene in volunteer teachers' salaries and improvement of other school facilities in District two and other parts of Grand Bassa through Educational programs.

18/10/2024

Awareness on Child Abuse through Music.

Disclaimer : We own no copyright ©️ to this Production
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/ZUdx48VkjT1qs11y/?mibextid=oFDknk

17/10/2024

𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐉𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐒 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊 𝐓𝐎 𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈 𝐊𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐀 𝐀𝐒 𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐘 𝐂𝐃𝐂 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐆𝐄𝐎𝐑𝐆𝐄 𝐖𝐄𝐀𝐇

𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐚, 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒)

The Unity Party-led Government, headed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr, categorically rejects link to plot on Capitol Hill to remove House Speaker, Honorable J. Fonati Koffa.

In a Release issued through its Acting Minister of Information, Daniel Sando, the Government describes as preposterous, disgraceful and unfounded accusations by the leader of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), Mr. George Weah, that it is funding such a scheme.

We believe that the purported plot to remove Speaker Koffa from his leadership role looks more like an internal power struggle within the CDC orchestrated by Mr. Weah. This is why Mr. Weah has been quick to deflect attention from himself to the Boakai-led Government.

“Mr. Weah is noted for fighting proxy battles against prominent leaders within the CDC so as to cement himself as the party’s demigod rather than allow others to gain political prominence. It is our thinking that Mr. Koffa’s confident leadership style scares Mr. Weah; and that the emergence of other principled leaders within the CDC that will take away complete allegiance from the former President always faces such challenge,” said Acting Information Minister Daniel Sando.

“To insinuate that the Government is using public monies to influence the purported actions on Capitol Hill to remove the Speaker, as Mr. Weah has done, speaks to the depraved mentality of the former President,” Minister Sando stated.

The Government reiterates that it is focused on delivering for the Liberian people. The people were rescued from Mr. Weah, and we remain committed to delivering for them the ARREST Agenda.
The Government will not be distracted by the former President’s continuous mudslinging and incendiary comments.

Photo credit : Liberia News Agency (LINA)

17/10/2024

In BASSA TODAY, credible sources have confirmed the planned Visit of Liberia's First Lady, Her Excellency Kartumu Yarta Boakai along with the Office of Vice President, Jeremiah Kpan Koung to Grand Bassa County.

The Sources informed BASSA TODAY Network that the visit is intended to witness the official unveiling of improvement work carried out by AFCONS at the Joseph M. N. Gbardyu School in Neekreen Statutory District, as the presence of the First Lady and the Chief of Office Staff of the Vice President will also avail opportunity for remarkable intervention.

It was also disclosed that the Education Minister, Jarso Maley Jallah will accompany Her Excellency, Mrs. Kartumu Boakai and the Senate Pro-temp, Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence is prepared to participate in the ceremony.

Accordingly, the National Leaders will be in County on Friday, October 18 as the County Administration led by Superintendent Julia Bono and the Representative Clarence T. Banks of Electoral District two will be joined by the County Education Officer and the Authorities of the Joseph M. N. Gbardyu School to welcome the First Lady's delegation.

Vividly, the need for Annex building, school feeding program, employment of more instructors and inclusion of volunteer teachers on payroll remain vital to the advancement of the Educational area in Neekreen Statutory District.

On the record, each classroom is hosting three classes [Grade 1-3], while sitting capacity is a challenge and one instructor is assigned to shoulder the responsibilities of the three-into-one Classroom.

17/10/2024

In Bassa Today,
Grand Bassa County has announced the appointment of Gabriel Montgomery as the chairman of the Bassa Sports Association (BSA) in preparation for the upcoming National County Sports Meet.

The appointment was made by the county information officer, Onesimus Garway, on behalf of the superintendent. Garway expressed confidence that the new administrative leadership of BSA would effectively serve the people of Bassa.

In addition to Montgomery, seven others have been named as part of the administrative leadership of the Bassa Sports Association. Garway emphasized that the administrative team would establish various committees, with all submissions being directed through the chairman to the superintendent's office.

Garway urged the appointed officials to collaborate with citizens, stakeholders, and concessionaires to achieve the county's goals. Notably, Gabriel Montgomery previously led the BSA team in the 2023/2024 National County Sports Meet, reaching the quarterfinals before being defeated by River Gee County with a score of 2-1.

15/10/2024

Full Text of the Pro Tempore Speech

My Distinguished Colleagues
The Secretary and Chamber staff
The Gallery team and Guests
Members of the press
Follow citizens, distinguished ladies and gentleman

Today the Liberian Senate returns from its 2nd break. It is my pleasing duty to welcome you again to the 37thday regular sitting, first session of the 55th Legislature of the Republic of Liberia.
During the period of the sitting, we accomplished the following:
13 legislations were passed, which include 8 ratifications, 1 Amendment and, 4 Enactments.
As of January 2024, up to the present, the Senate confirmed a total of 950 officials of government which included an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia.

Ratifications

• AN ACT RATIFYING THE LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA AND AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND (MANO RIVER UNION ROAD DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSPORT FACILITATION PROGRAMME PHASE IV

• AN ACT RATIFYING THE LOAN AGREEMENT AMONGST THE REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA AND AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK AND AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND (AS ADMINISTRATOR OF TRANSITION SUPPORT MANO RIVER UNION ROAD DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSPORT FACILITATION PROGRAMME PHASE IV.

• AN ACT TO RATIFY THE FINANCING AGREEMENT (GOVERNANCE REFORM AND ACCOUNTABILITY TRANSFORMATION PROJECT) BETWEEN REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

• “AN ACT TO RATIFY THE FINANCING AGREEMENT (LIBERIA ELECTRICITY SECTOR STRENGTHENING AND ACCESS PROJECT PHASE2 UNDER THE MULTI-PHASE PROGRAMMATIC APPROACH) BETWEEN REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

• “AN ACT TO RATIFY THE FINANCING AGREEMENT (SECOND ADDITIONAL
FINANCING FOR THE RURAL ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION PROJECT) BETWEEN REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION.”

• AN ACT TO RATIFY THE LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA AND AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND (PROGRAM FOR ADVANCING YOUTH ENTREPRENURSHIP INVESTMENT (PAYEI) – PROJECT A: THE LIBERIAN YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP INVESTMENT BANK,”


Under the Employees’ regularization status by the Civil Service Agency.

We have addressed most of the issues raised by the CSA as regards staffing at Central Administration. Along with the Ways, Means and, Finance, we are raising needed funds for the retirement of staffs who are due for pension. A certified list of Central Administration Staffers will be released shortly. With technical support from the Ministry of Public Works, we have completed the technical assessment of the two senate buildings. Renovation works will commence shortly.

Thanks to Rules, Order and, Administration Committee headed by Sen. J. Gbleh-Bo Brown.

Overview on the Reform Agenda:
As you may all know, the General Auditing Commission (GAC) completed the system and controls review of the Senate that we requested. The report containing findings and recommendations was presented to the Senate. There were several queries made in the report. We therefore conducted a thorough review of all the findings, queries, and recommendations. A decision was made to respond to the GAC, and that was done.
In keeping with those recommendations, we met with the GAC follow-up team and we have hired a Financial Advisor for a period of Ninety Days. He has commenced work and currently overseeing the establishment of the required system and controls, and other recommendations as made by GAC.

Modernization:
I wish to commend the Modernization Committee headed by our distinguished colleague from Nimba County, Senator Nya D. Twayen, Jr., for the great work that his committee continues to do. Today, as a result of their commitment and dedication, the Senate’s Official Website is ready and will be launched today.
The Senate website will be exclusively for the Senate depicting the work of the Senate through visual, audio, and written means. The daily journal will be posted for public access, including useful information about Senators.

Senators who have individual websites and /or social media pages will be linked to the site to take viewers to those personal pages where they will see other posted information or work done by said Senators.

The Senate website will contain annual Draft and Final National Budgets, Draft Bills and Laws enacted Voting Records, Ratified Concession Agreements, Treaties, Amendments etc.

It will also feature all committee reports and daily visuals and pictures of major debates in plenary and committee hearings, amongst others

Recap of Recent International Engagements by the Senate Delegations

Honorable Senators, distinguished colleagues, and fellow Liberians, as we reconvene for this new session, I believe it is essential to reflect on our recent international engagements, which have been pivotal in strengthening our position on the global stage and fostering meaningful collaborations across Africa.

From August 19-22, 2024, I attended the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, as well as the NDI Leaders Forum. During this event, I had the privilege of meeting with global leaders, including Mrs. Kandia Camara, President of the Ivorian Senate. We discussed plans for the International Symposium of African Senates in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast.

Most recently, from October 9-10, 2024, the symposium was held.

The symposium focused on democratic governance and leadership, further highlighting the importance of collaboration across borders to address the challenges facing our nations. This event was also a reminder that strong partnerships are key to achieving growth and sustainable development across Africa. Because of our involvement at the United Nations, the Senate was represented in the Ivory Coast by Senators Jonathan Sogbie and Botoe Kanneh and Mr. Nanborlor Singbeh Secretary of the Senate. We expect a report from them.

2024 Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges in Shanghai, The People's Republic of China Forum August 31 to September 4, 2024, I had the honor of leading a delegation to the Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges in Shanghai, China, organized by the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. I was accompanied by Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.

As the head of the global delegation, I had the distinct honor of standing alongside His Excellency, Vice President Han Zheng of the People's Republic of China, and to speak about the relationship between both countries.

This is a testament to the role Liberia is increasingly playing on the international stage. It reflects the trust and responsibility bestowed upon us to lead discussions that shape global policies and foster mutual growth and understanding.

United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) – New York City, USA�From September 19 to 26, 2024, I led a delegation to the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. Accompanying me were Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, Senator Dabba Varpilah, a member of the same committee, Sen. Momo Cyrus chairman on the Defense Committee and Senator Augustine Chea member of the Defense Committee.

This was a historic trip for Liberia, as we officially made our bid to become a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. This move signifies our nation's growing involvement in global peace and security efforts. The UNGA provided a platform for us to reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to international cooperation and to engage with world leaders on issues of peace, security, and sustainable development.

As we return today, I wish to include in our Agenda the continuation of the reform working for a more robust oversight.
The following should be prioritized with full plenary involvement and actions.
The issues of:
1. Electricity
2. The Health sector and focusing on the functioning of JFK and Referral Hospitals.
3. Our Education sector/ focusing on the programs to be implemented including the inclusion of volunteer teachers that was approved by this senate.
4. Roads funds utilization.

Welcome again and thank you always for your cooperation and commitment.
We look forward to a very progressive opening session and include tours to sectors that are mentioned for oversight.

14/10/2024

In BASSA TODAY, a 59 year old man, James Myers goes missing in District #3 C as his brother calls on Local Authorities to investigate.

The situation has caused angry crowd from an unknown destination to set ablaze several houses in the town, eye witnessed have disclosed.

Narrating detail of the happening, the brother of the missing man, Mr. Matthew Myers said his brother went missing in Gbon Town since Friday and has not been found.

He alleged that the 59 years old who operates a Canoe in the town was called upon on Friday October 11 during the morning hour by a man identified as Onesimus Geebior to transport he and his friends from across the B**g County side of the St. John River into Grand Bassa.

Myers furthered that since that moment, they have searched the bushes, nearby towns and villages, but his brother James remains in a state of disappearance similar to the Canoe he used to cross the three men.

“When the news of my brother being missing started spreading like a wildfire, the three men who were lastly seen with him, suddenly escaped from the town and are on the run", Matthew Myers lamented.

In expressed frustration, he.emphasized uncertainty about the current status of his brother; wondering over him being alive or not, stating further that the town has an alleged negative history of people mysterious disappearance without a trace of being found.

Myers is calling on the authority of the District to properly investigate the matter and if anyone is caught, the law should take its course in order to set a precedent in the town.

As it stands, Bassa Today Network has not gathered any information about Police intervention nor arrest.

Note : the attached photos only represent St. John River

14/10/2024

Grand Bassa Health Officer provides Health Briefing To Superintendent Bono amidst One Confirmed Case of Mpox

October 14, 2024) ---

In BASSA TODAY, the interaction of both Superintendent Julia Bono and County Health Officer, Dr. Jude Wesseh has revealed the establishment of an Incident Management Team as part of early Response and preparatory strategies to Monkey Pox in the County.

A report from the County Administration said Dr. Wesseh informed Superintendent Bono that the confirmed Case has two contacts, a situation that depicts immediate setup of an Isolation Center.

It was also disclosed that Grand Bassa first Mpox Case was confirmed on 10 October this year by NPHIL and the Ministry of Health after indepth medical critique at the Reference Lab; the male patient that is currently under isolation in Zondo, Electoral District four.

Though there is no trace of recent travel by the Patient out of his Residential area, but it is suspected that the 20 years Old young man who is a farmer must have come in contact with a virus infected animal that resulted in the infectious status, the County Health Officer unveiled; noting adequate efforts being made to ensure guaranteed isolation at the moment.

The medical update triggered huge concern from Superintendent Bono as she swiftly began working with the Health Authority to initiate a more quality response system and ensure the availability of an Isolation Unit that would host Mpox patients; though the Bassa Leader is more concerned about the curtailing aspect of the Viral.

She further assured Dr. Wesseh of the County Administration's reliable support in maintaining a healthy environment in-line with the citizens' wellbeing.

Particularly, the current record shows that Maryland, Grand Kru, Sinoe, Rivergee, Nimba, B**g and Montoserrado and Lofa are other Counties that have recorded the Monkey Pox; a reason for precautionary measures by all citizens.

Global Health Authorities have stated that Monkey pox is an infectious viral disease that can occur in humans and other animals; a Viral which symptoms include a rash that forms blisters and then crusts over, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

14/10/2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

President Boakai Calls for Immediate Global Action on Food Security

October 14, 2024

Rome, Italy,— President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has called on the global community to take swift and decisive action to address the growing food insecurity crisis, particularly in Africa.

Delivering the keynote address at the World Food Forum to an audience of heads of state, development leaders, and international organizations, President Boakai highlighted the alarming rise of hunger and malnutrition, stating that the time for endless discussions has passed, and the world must now act.

“One in five people in Africa go to bed hungry,” President Boakai alarmed, warning, “We cannot wait for another summit or another meeting. The time for action is now, and we have the means to make a real difference.”

The President outlined Liberia’s ambitious plan to drive agricultural transformation, positioning the country as a key player in the fight against global hunger.

He noted that central to Liberia’s strategy is the development of a sustainable agrifood system that will strengthen local food production, improve rural livelihoods, and secure a better future for all citizens.

President Boakai announced the launch of Liberia’s Agro-Industrial Development Program, which will focus on oil palm and cocoa as key crops to drive economic growth and food security.

This initiative, he explained, is aimed at cultivating 100,000 hectares of land initially, expanding to 300,000 hectares over time to meet both local and regional demand. He also emphasized the importance of leveraging technology, digitization, and research to improve agricultural practices and boost productivity.

The President stressed the need for greater investment in rural infrastructure, including roads, markets, and storage facilities, to enhance food supply chains and reduce post-harvest losses.

He also highlighted the importance of empowering smallholder farmers and local cooperatives to drive community resilience and self-reliance.

With climate change posing an increasing threat to food security, President Boakai called for the adoption of climate-smart agriculture, including drought-resistant crops and environmentally sustainable farming practices.

He noted that Liberia is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 64% by 2030, while continuing to be a net carbon sink. “We must fight climate change while we fight hunger,” he said.

The Liberian Leader emphasized the need for stronger social protection programs to shield vulnerable populations from food insecurity. He urged global leaders to prioritize nutrition programs for children, pregnant women, and the elderly, ensuring that the most at-risk groups receive the support they need to break the cycle of hunger and poverty.

Recognizing that food security is a global challenge, President Boakai called for increased cross-border collaboration and partnerships between governments, civil society, and the private sector. He urged all stakeholders to share best practices and work together to create a sustainable global food system that can withstand future shocks.

He expressed that Liberia’s agricultural sector accounts for nearly 29% of the country’s GDP and provides a livelihood for over 68% of its population emphasizing that Liberia’s future lies in the sustainable development of its natural resources, with a focus on increasing productivity in food crops, fisheries, and cash crops like cocoa and palm oil.

The Liberian Chief Executive announced that the Agro-Industrial Development Program will be central to Liberia’s vision for food security, economic growth, and wealth creation in rural areas.

He further explained that the program is expected to create new jobs, attract foreign direct investment, and generate critical foreign exchange for the country.

The President said Liberia will also establish an Agriculture Enterprise Development Bank to improve access to finance for farmers and agribusinesses, further empowering smallholder farmers, women, and youth to participate in and benefit from the agricultural value chain.

He called on global leaders to commit to concrete actions that will lead to tangible change, stressing that the fight against hunger is not just about producing more food, but about creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agrifood systems.

“The time for rhetoric has passed,” President Boakai said, pointing out that “We have the knowledge, the technology, and the resources.What we need now is the will to act.” he concluded.

Agriculture is a key pillar of the President’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.