_{Gbedin, Nimba County, October 8, 2029] – In a significant step toward reaching national food security under the “Liberians Feed Yourselves Agenda,” the Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has officially launched the Gbedin Rice brand in partnership with Gbedin Agro-Business Incorporated (GABI) and the Dokodan Farmers Cooperative in Nimba County. The initiative highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to reducing rice imports by 70% and achieving self-sufficiency in food production by 2029.}

_{Speaking at the ceremony, Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah reaffirmed the government’s resolve to strengthen domestic rice production through targeted support to local producers and processors.} 

_{“Today is a very special day for us in the agriculture sector. Last year, we promised the Liberian people that we wanted to see Liberian-produced rice on the local market. Today marks the beginning of that realization as we officially launch Gbedin Rice,” said Dr. Nuetah.}

_{“Although we are not there yet, this is a significant step toward achieving our goal. I assure you of our continued support, but I also want to encourage you to keep producing what we are showing the Liberian people here today. We want to see this particular brand on the market where Liberians can purchase.”}

_{The Gbedin Rice brand is the first of seven local rice brands identified by the Ministry of Agriculture for targeted support in production, processing, and market access. The initiative is designed to build a structured value chain that connects farmers, processors, and consumers, ensuring that Liberian-grown rice is available, affordable, and competitive on the local market.}

_{Minister Nuetah noted that supporting local brands like Gbedin Rice will not only improve farmers’ livelihoods but also create jobs, stimulate rural economies, and contribute to national economic stability. Similar launches are planned for other identified brands in the coming months as part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to strengthen Liberia’s rice sector.}

_{Through this initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture continues to drive innovation, mechanization, and private sector partnerships to ensure that local production meets national demand, laying the foundation for a future where Liberia feeds itself.}