MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Liberian Government and a delegation from California’s agricultural, academic, and investment sectors have launched a joint initiative to eliminate Liberia’s 200 million annual rice import bill and modernize the country’s farming sector.

The initiative aims to combine Liberia’s natural resources and workforce with California’s innovation and investment by building a pathway to food security and sustainable economic growth.

The announcement followed a multi-stakeholder strategy session held in California, the United States, where both parties committed to a rapid-action plan that moves Liberia from importing sixty-one percent of its rice to full self-sufficiency.

Under the framework, pilot projects will target fifty thousand hectares of lowland areas for rice cultivation.

The model integrates smallholder farmers with multinational processors through nucleus estates and out-grower schemes, ensuring access to markets, mechanization, and financing.

The partnership, according to a dispatch, will also tackle critical constraints, including irrigation, seed and fertilizer access, post-harvest processing, and affordable credit for farmers.