JICA Hands Liberia Lifeline Agriculture Tools to Transform Rice Sector

Monrovia, Liberia: In a bold push to revamp Liberia’s rice production and reduce dependence on food imports, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has handed over a critical set of agricultural equipment and technical tools to the Ministry of Agriculture—signaling a major milestone in the country’s journey toward food self-sufficiency.

The high-value donation—delivered under the Liberia Rice (LIBRICE) Project—included two vehicles, six jungle motorbikes, a high-capacity generator, and specialized agro-bio tools. These resources are intended to solidify and sustain the achievements made under the LIBRICE initiative, which officially concludes in May 2025.

During the handover ceremony, JICA LIBRICE Project Coordinator Raymond Misa commended Liberia’s progress in the rice sector and applauded the ministry’s newly trained team of rice experts who, he said, are now well-equipped to drive the next phase of agricultural transformation.

“Let it be clear—JICA is not leaving Liberia. Only the LIBRICE Project is concluding,” Misa emphasized, noting that JICA remains a long-term partner in Liberia’s development. He also highlighted the project’s development of technical manuals and guides that will support the implementation of the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP).

Receiving the donation, Deputy Agriculture Minister for Planning and Development Moses Gbanyan described the equipment as “game-changing” and said it would inject new energy into government efforts to empower local farmers and boost domestic rice production.

“These assets are not just machines—they are tools of liberation for Liberian farmers. They will accelerate the ‘Liberians Feed Yourselves’ agenda and push us closer to national food security,” Gbanyan declared with conviction.

The gesture is being celebrated as a critical intervention at a time when Liberia spends millions annually on imported rice. Officials say the donation will strengthen field mobility, enhance rice seed distribution, and improve technical extension services across rural farming communities.

Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah was also applauded by JICA for his leadership and vision, which partners say have energized the sector and built trust in Liberia’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.

Beyond equipment, JICA’s technical legacy includes the training of Liberian extension workers and the introduction of best practices in seed production—capacities that will endure well after the LIBRICE Project winds down.

As Liberia intensifies efforts to produce what it consumes, the Agriculture Ministry vowed to continue working with development partners like JICA to ensure that farmers are empowered and positioned to thrive in a modern, self-reliant agricultural economy.