Minister Nuetah Lauds Progress at Rice Production Sites, Urges More Action in Bong County
Bong County, Liberia – March 25, 2026 – Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah has lauded the progress being made at key rice production sites in Bong County, describing the ongoing work as pivotal to Liberia’s drive toward food self-sufficiency.
Speaking during a field assessment tour in the county, the Minister commended the performance of ongoing agricultural interventions, noting that current efforts are increasingly aligning with the government’s national production targets.
The two rice seed production sites—located in Garmuu (5 hectares) and Sinyea (15 hectares)—are being operated by the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) with support from the SADFONS initiative. Both sites are currently engaged in foundation seed production, a critical component in strengthening the country’s seed system and improving yields for farmers nationwide.
“The sites we have visited are impressive and are meeting our objectives. These are the kinds of results we want to see across the country,” Minister Nuetah stated.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of quality inputs, the Minister noted that improved seed systems remain central to increasing national rice output.
“These production sites are laying the foundation for increased rice production across Liberia. Farmers will benefit from access to quality seeds produced here,” he added.
Bong County is projected to cultivate over 1,400 hectares of rice in 2026, supported by multiple government and partner-driven initiatives. The county continues to play a vital role in Liberia’s broader agricultural transformation agenda.
At the national level, the government has committed to directly supporting more than 7,400 hectares, with total production expected to exceed 10,000 hectares when individual farmers’ contributions are included.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing dependence on imported rice, highlighting encouraging trends in domestic production.
“We are already importing less than 50 percent of what we consume. If we meet our targets, we will significantly reduce importation and strengthen our food security,” he said.
While commending farmers and stakeholders in Bong County for their efforts, Minister Nuetah called for sustained commitment to build on current gains.
“The momentum is there, but we must do more. We encourage our farmers to take full advantage of the support available and increase production,” he urged.
With continued investments in seed systems, land development, and farmer support services, Liberia is steadily advancing toward its long-term goal of achieving large-scale rice production and national food security.
