Ministry of Agriculture Launches Peri-Urban Agriculture Initiative

By: William McGill

Congo Town: Liberia's Minister of Agriculture, has unveiled the Government's new Peri-urban Agriculture Development Program, set to transform urban spaces into thriving agricultural hubs. 

This groundbreaking initiative according to Minister Alexander Nuetah will be rolled out in three key locations: Montserrado, Margibi and Nimba Counties. 

Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism's Regular Press Briefing, Minister Nuetah outlined the program's objectives, stating, "Our aim is to empower peri-urban residents by harnessing swamplands and backyards for agricultural purposes."

He further, explained that the initiative will enable farmers to cultivate rice during the rainy season and grow vegetables during the dry season, thereby ensuring year-round productivity and food security.

To facilitate the success of the program, the Ministry of Agriculture plans to establish dedicated hotlines for monitoring, registration, and support for peri-urban farming activities.

Peri-urban agriculture, as defined by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), encompasses practices that involve food production and related processes within cities and surrounding regions. 

By tapping into these urban spaces, Liberia's Peri-urban Agriculture Initiative aims to harness the potential of agricultural production to meet the needs of urban and rural communities alike.