Minister of Agriculture Addresses Rumors on Agricultural Grants Program

The Minister of Agriculture, has clarified that the recent temporary suspension of the agricultural matching grants program is not due to internal policy shifts, but rather a necessary step following a request from the World Bank. During a press briefing at the Ministry of Information on Tuesday, he explained that the suspension allows for a comprehensive review to ensure alignment with the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP).

Dr. Alexander Nuetah emphasized that there have been no holds placed on the grants, and the Ministry is fully cooperating with the World Bank, which is currently conducting a mid-term review of the Rural Economic and Transformation Project (RETRAP). This review will evaluate over 20 grant proposals to determine their alignment with NADP objectives. “The World Bank advised us to wait for the mid-term review to assess the current grant programs,” he stated.

Additionally, Dr. Nuetah revealed that 14 proposals under the Smallholder Agriculture Transformation Project (STAR-P) have been submitted and approved for World Bank consideration. However, he noted that the World Bank has requested a reevaluation of certain review processes that influenced the project recommendations.

A World Bank team is currently in Liberia for a mid-term review of both STAR-P and RETRAP, which feature matching grant components aimed at supporting smallholder farmers and agribusinesses. These initiatives, part of the Liberia Agriculture Commercialization Fund (LACF), are crucial for enhancing financial access and encouraging private sector investment, thereby boosting agricultural productivity and commercialization nationwide.

Furthermore, Minister Nuetah mentioned that the Ministry is in the process of reviewing the contract with the financial firm managing the LACF, with an expected conclusion by November. This review aims to ensure the LACF operates effectively to achieve its objectives.