Monrovia, May 29, 2024 – In response to the recent fluctuations in rice prices and the looming threat of further increases, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has formed a dedicated committee to address the pressing issues surrounding Liberia’s staple food. This initiative aims to ensure that rice remains available and affordable for all Liberians.
The newly established Committee on Rice has been tasked with several critical responsibilities designed to stabilize the rice supply chain and boost local production. Among its primary objectives are:
- Formulating Policies for Steady Supply: The committee will develop comprehensive strategies to maintain a constant and reliable supply of rice throughout Liberia, aiming to prevent shortages and mitigate price spikes.
- Accelerating Local Production: The committee will emphasize increasing domestic rice production and reducing dependence on imports. This includes devising import substitution strategies to encourage local farming and enhance food security.
- Promoting Liberian Participation: Ensuring active involvement of Liberians in the importation and distribution of rice is a priority. This approach aims to empower local businesses and create a more inclusive and self-sufficient supply chain.
- Reactivating the Rice Stabilization Fund: The committee will work on effective policies to reactivate and manage the Rice Stabilization Fund, a critical tool for regulating rice prices and supporting the agricultural sector.
- Establishing a Comprehensive Database: A detailed database will be created to track rice prices, compare them with major rice-producing countries, and monitor the different grades of rice available in the market. This information will help in making informed decisions and ensuring price stability.
The committee, chaired by Ambassador Charles Minor, includes representatives from various sectors, including government ministries, private sector entities, and civil society organizations. The full list of members is as follows:
- Amb. Charles Minor – Chairman
- Mr. David Vinton – Member
- Mrs. Tenaky Toure Kaba – Member
- Ministry of Agriculture – Member
- Ministry of Commerce & Industry – Member
- Ministry of Finance & Development Planning – Member
- Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs – Member
- Fouta Corporation – Member
- National Port Authority – Member
- Liberia Business Association – Member
- Liberia Marketing Association – Member
- National Transport Union of Liberia – Member
- Liberia Bankers Association – Member
- National Civil Society Council of Liberia – Member
- Rural Women Organization of Liberia – Member
The committee is expected to begin work immediately, focusing on both short-term and long-term measures to address the rice crisis.
Public Expectations
The establishment of the Committee on Rice has been met with cautious optimism from the public. Liberians are hopeful that the committee’s efforts will lead to tangible improvements in rice availability and affordability. There are high expectations for the committee to:
Stabilize Prices: Consumers are looking forward to a reduction in rice price volatility, ensuring that this essential staple remains affordable for all, particularly in economically vulnerable communities.
Boost Local Production: Farmers and agricultural stakeholders expect enhanced support and investment to increase domestic rice production, ultimately reducing reliance on imports and fostering food security.
Promote Transparency: There is a strong demand for transparency in the rice supply chain, with hopes that the committee’s work will lead to fair pricing and eliminate any corrupt practices that contribute to artificial price inflation.
Empower Local Businesses: Small and medium-sized enterprises involved in the rice trade anticipate greater participation opportunities, fostering economic growth and job creation.
In his statement, President Boakai emphasized the importance of stabilizing the rice market and supporting local production. “The establishment of this committee underscores our commitment to addressing the challenges in the rice sector. We must ensure that our staple food is always available and affordable for all Liberians, while also empowering our local farmers and businesses,” he said.
The committee’s swift action and comprehensive approach are crucial for mitigating the current crisis and setting a sustainable path forward for Liberia’s rice sector. The government and the committee members are poised to work collaboratively towards these goals, with the ultimate aim of ensuring food security and economic stability for the nation.
