Improvement Expected In Food Crop Production, Processing And Marketing
The United States, through its Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in Liberia has signed co-investment grants to improve food crop production, processing, and marketing.
A US Embassy press release said the grant agreements, which was May 22, 2024, are co-investments made with eleven agricultural cooperatives and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from Bong, Nimba, Montserrado and Grand Bassa counties.
This initiative is a part of the $20-million “Feed the Future Liberia Food Security, Nutrition and Resilience” project funded by USAID, which aims to enhance agriculture-led economic growth, food security, and nutrition. Feed the Future is the U.S. Government’s global initiative to end poverty, hunger, and malnutrition.
This first cohort of co-investment grants, totaling $450,000, will leverage private sector investment of $340,000. These grants are designed to enhance food crop productivity and create job opportunities, thereby contributing to Liberia’s overall economic expansion.
“We are thrilled to partner with local cooperatives and SMEs to drive private-sector-led agricultural growth and development in Liberia,” said Jim Wright, USAID Liberia Mission Director. “Today’s event is a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration.”
One of the sub-grantees, the Say No to Hunger Farmers’ Multipurpose Cooperative, has outlined ambitious plans for the use of the grant. They intend to expand their agricultural operations, thereby increasing their production capacity and creating more employment opportunities within the community. This tangible outcome of the grant is a testament to its potential. Mr. P. Ezekiel Sayeteeng, Executive Director of Say No to Hunger Farmers’ Multipurpose Cooperative, expressed his gratitude for USAID’s support and his excitement for the future prospects.
The co-investment grants program is part of a broader strategy to support economic development in Liberia. The United States aims to stimulate innovation, enhance competitiveness, and drive sustainable economic growth by partnering with local businesses. This initiative also aligns with the Liberian government’s goals to strengthen the private sector and reduce poverty through inclusive and sustainable economic development.
The signing ceremony, held at the Say No to Hunger Farmers’ Multipurpose Cooperative facility in Nimba County, was attended by key stakeholders, including government officials and representatives from the private sector. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving development goals and showcased the potential of Liberia’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.