By Chuckey Radamel Thomas
ABIDJAN, Côte d’Ivoire – Liberia is intensifying efforts to strengthen its agricultural sector through regional cooperation, research partnerships and access to modern farming technologies as the government seeks to increase local rice production and reduce reliance on imports.
Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah is leading Liberia’s delegation to the 34th Ordinary Session of the AfricaRice Council of Ministers, taking place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from November 4 to 6, 2026.
The meeting brings together agricultural policymakers and research institutions to discuss strategies for improving rice production and addressing challenges affecting the sector across participating countries.
During the engagement, Liberia is exploring opportunities for technical cooperation, improved agricultural research, technology exchange, and capacity development to strengthen its domestic rice industry.
Key areas of interest include the introduction of climate-adapted rice varieties, expansion of irrigation facilities, access to modern agricultural equipment and improved farming techniques.
These interventions are particularly relevant to Liberia, where farmers continue to face difficulties associated with limited mechanization, inadequate irrigation infrastructure and insufficient access to quality seeds and other improved agricultural inputs.
The Liberian delegation includes Dr. Arthur Bob Karnuah, Director General of the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI), and Mr. Lorenzo S. Nimley, Senior Technical Advisor to the Agriculture Minister.
CARI’s involvement is expected to provide an important research perspective to discussions on improving agricultural practices and translating scientific findings into practical solutions for local farmers.
Rice remains Liberia’s principal staple food, but the country continues to depend significantly on foreign supplies to meet domestic demand. The situation has placed increased attention on efforts to strengthen local production, improve agricultural productivity, and reduce exposure to international market pressures.
The Ministry of Agriculture has identified stronger partnerships, improved farming systems, investment in local processing and the development of efficient rice value chains as important components of its food security strategy.
Liberia’s participation in the AfricaRice ministerial meeting provides an opportunity to pursue regional cooperation and technical assistance that could support the country’s long-term objective of increasing domestic rice production and moving toward self-sufficiency.
