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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through its Accelerated Community Development Program (ACDP), has donated 16 motorbikes to the Ministry of Agriculture to enhance the work of agricultural extension officers across Liberia.
The donation, which took place at a ceremony in Monrovia, aims to improve access to agricultural resources and support for farmers in remote areas.
During the handover ceremony, Mr. Louis Kuukpen, Deputy Resident Representative for Program at UNDP Liberia, highlighted the significance of the donation: “These motorbikes will play a critical role in empowering extension teams to support cooperatives and farmers across the country.”
The ACDP is an initiative tackling poverty reduction, job creation, and improvements in critical areas like water, sanitation, health, and energy.
The motorbikes will be distributed to agricultural extension workers who play a crucial role in providing technical assistance, training, and resources to local farmers.
Accordingly, UNDP provided 14 tractors, trailers, and farming tools for 2,000 farmers to boost mechanized farming.
With many rural communities facing challenges in accessing agricultural support due to poor infrastructure and limited transportation options, the motorbikes are expected to facilitate better outreach and communication between extension workers and farmers.
Additional, UNDP Resident Representative in Liberia, Dr. Pa Lamin Beyai, emphasized the importance of strengthening agricultural extension services to boost food security and economic development in the country.
“Agriculture is the backbone of Liberia’s economy, and by enhancing the capacity of our extension workers, we are investing in the future of our farmers and the sustainability of our agricultural sector,” he stated.
The donation is part of a broader initiative by UNDP to support Liberia’s agricultural development, which includes training programs, access to modern farming techniques, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Furthermore, a release from the Ministry of Agriculture confirm the UNDP is provide support especially in constructing three agricultural processing and storage facilities in Gbarpolu, Bong, and Rivercess counties to address post-harvest losses and improve food security.
Receiving the motorbikes on behalf of Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, Mr. Solomon Hedd-Williams, Deputy Minister for Technical Services, expressed gratitude, stating: “These motorbikes will help extension workers reach rural farmers and deliver timely support, ensuring Liberia’s agriculture sector thrives.”
This donation will bridge longstanding mobility gaps, strengthening the Ministry of Agriculture’s capacity to support farmers and boost food production in Liberia.
“With these motorbikes, our extension workers will be able to reach us more easily, share valuable knowledge, and help us improve our farming practices,”Mr. Solomon Hedd-Williams, Deputy Minister for Technical Services, and Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah added .
The donation of motorbikes is expected to enhance the efficiency of agricultural extension services, enabling workers to cover larger areas and provide timely assistance to farmers.
This initiative is part of UNDP’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for communities in Liberia.
The partnerships between international organizations, the government, and local communities will be essential in driving progress and ensuring food security for all.
