Rep. Flomo is Advocating for a Shift in Focus toward Agriculture as a Key Element for Economic Growth

GRAND BASSA COUNTY: Representative Alfred H. Flomo of Grand Bassa County Electoral District#4 says Liberia can only achieve sustainable economic growth if the nation moves away from its dependence on the extractive industry and prioritizes a robust agriculture-driven economy.

Representative Flomo emphasized that despite Liberia’s vast natural resource wealth, the reliance on mining and other extractive ventures has not translated into significant livelihood improvements for ordinary citizens.

He pointed out that the agriculture sector has the potential to employ the highest portion of Liberia’s population, presenting the most realistic path to economic transformation.

“Liberia has fertile soil, favorable climate conditions, and hardworking citizens who are ready to farm. What we lack is the needed investment and proper system to ensure agriculture pays off,” he said.

Speaking on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the lawmaker stressed the importance of empowering smallholder farmers, describing them as key actors in the national food production chain.

He noted that smallholder farmers continue to face unnecessary barriers such as limited market access, poor road networks, a lack of modern farming tools, and difficulty accessing financing.

Representative Flomo expressed concern over the implementation of the Rural Economic Transformation Project (RETRAP) under the Ministry of Agriculture, claiming it has not delivered meaningful results on the ground.

According to the Bassa Lawmaker, a significant portion of the project’s funds remains centralized at the administrative level rather than reaching the intended beneficiaries.

“If the farmers who grow our food cannot feel the impact of RETRAP, then we need to re-evaluate how these funds are being disbursed,” Representative Flomo intoned, urging the government and development partners to ensure greater transparency and accountability to maximize project results.

He also renewed calls for the re-establishment of the Agricultural Development Bank, which he believes would play a critical role in providing affordable loans to farmers and agribusinesses.

Representative Flomo stated that strengthening agricultural financing is essential for boosting production, enhancing value addition, and increasing exports.

He maintained that with the right investments in technology, training, and rural infrastructure, the agriculture sector has the potential to become a major source of employment for Liberian youth, reduce food imports, and contribute significantly to national revenue generation.

Representative Flomo concluded by urging policymakers to prioritize agriculture in national planning, noting that sustainable economic growth can only be achieved when Liberians are empowered to produce what they eat and export what they grow.