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The World Bank has reissued its appeal to Liberia, urging the nation to leverage agriculture as a key force for economic change, ensuring food stability, and generating employment opportunities, even though the country keeps using limited foreign currency to import essential food products despite having significant natural resources.

Speaking Friday, December 12, 2025, at theNational Agricultural Fair in Ganta, World Bank Manager for LiberiaGeorgia Wallencommended Liberian farmers—especially women, whom she mentioned generate an approximate93 percent of the nation’s food supply–as the foundation of the national economy.

Farmers are central to Liberia’s economy,” Wallen stated. “Your efforts feed every Liberian family, in every community and every county.

The Festival, conducted under the themeEmpowering Agricultural Workers, Strengthening the Country,gathered President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, high-ranking government representatives, international development allies, and hundreds of agricultural producers from throughout the nation.

Dependency on Imports Despite Abundant Natural Resources

Wallen pointed out that despite Liberia having rich soil, plenty of rain, and a good climate, the nation still has to import basic foods likerice, poultry, and vegetables, putting pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

She mentioned that the circumstances could be changed through intentional policy decisions by the government.ARREST Plan for Inclusive Growth, which focuses on economic change and local manufacturing.

“Revealing Liberia’s agricultural capabilities will demand focused government assistance and effective incentives that encourage private funding,” she mentioned.

As per Wallen, essential elements for change are:

• Regular funding for farmers and agricultural businesses;
• Enhanced access to markets and storage facilities;
• High-quality inputs and robust extension services; and
• Solutions focused on sustainability and technology that enhance efficiency and minimize threats.

World Bank Supports Change in Agricultural and Food Systems

The World Bank, Wallen stated, continues to be dedicated to aiding Liberia’s agricultural development via its latestWorld Bank Group National Partnership Framework, focusing on making the agricultural food system moreefficient, inclusive, and sustainable.

“Our assistance focuses on boosting efficiency, enhancing value networks, creating stable markets, and generating prospects that lead to employment—particularly for Liberia’s dynamic young population,” she stated.

She portrayed the National Agriculture Fair as a driving force in a larger national initiative aimed at developing a contemporary food system that minimizes reliance on imports, generates employment opportunities, and keeps more economic value within the local community.

Farmers at the Center

Wallen highlighted the essential contribution of women farmers and small-scale producers, whose everyday work supports families and markets throughout Liberia.

“Today, we honor the individuals whose strength and initiative ensure Liberia has food,” she stated.

She praised the Liberian Government, development partners, and farmers for their teamwork and guidance in promoting agricultural growth.

Toward a Food-Secure Future

Walen ended with a positive outlook, stating that continued investment, policy changes, and involvement from the private sector will bring Liberia nearer to achieving food self-reliance and mutual prosperity.

“This event serves as another catalyst in Liberia’s efforts to transform its food system—one that supports families, enhances agricultural business prospects, and ensures a more prosperous future for everyone in Liberia,” she stated.

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Tagged: Liberia, Food and Agriculture, International Organizations and Africa, Trade, West Africa, External Relations, Economy, Business and Finance

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