Africa-Press – Liberia. As Liberians celebrate the Christmas season, the Ministry of Agriculture has extended goodwill to vulnerable communities with the donation of 200 bags of locally grown rice through the National Food Assistance Agency (NAFAA).
The donation was officially presented on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, with the Ministry represented by Deputy Minister for Administration, Antoinette Dukuly, who said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to sharing the spirit of the season with less fortunate and disabled Liberians.
Minister Dukuly explained that the rice was purchased directly from local farmers engaged in commercial rice production, a deliberate policy choice aimed at strengthening domestic agriculture and reducing Liberia’s dependence on imported rice.
By sourcing locally, she noted, the Ministry is supporting farmers’ livelihoods while encouraging increased production of one of Liberia’s most important staple foods. She described the approach as mutually beneficial, stressing that empowering farmers translates into job creation and broader economic growth.
“Buying locally grown rice is a win-win for Liberia,” Minister Dukuly said. “When Liberians choose local rice, they are empowering farmers, creating jobs, and strengthening the economy.”
Receiving the donation, NAFAA Director General Hon. Boakai Sherriff commended the Ministry of Agriculture for prioritizing vulnerable communities during the festive season, describing the gesture as timely and impactful.
He assured the public that NAFAA will ensure transparency and accountability in distributing the rice to its intended beneficiaries, including disabled communities. “Transparency is the hallmark of our team,” Sherriff said.
The NAFAA Director General also highlighted the health benefits of locally grown rice, noting its nutritional value and lower sugar content, which he said helps reduce the risk of diabetes.
“When you buy locally grown rice, you also support the health sector, because Liberian rice is nutritious,” he added.
Sherriff disclosed that NAFAA has intensified its nationwide relief efforts, with distributions already underway in Margibi and Nimba counties. He said the newly received rice consignment will significantly enhance those efforts.
Among the identified beneficiaries is the Antoinette Tubman Cheshire Home, located on 10th Street in Sinkor, Monrovia. The non-profit institution provides care for children and adults with mental and physical disabilities, including cerebral palsy.
Established in 1985, the home was named after Liberia’s former First Lady, Antoinette Tubman, who donated the property. It relies largely on support from individuals, organizations, and international partners to care for residents, many of whom have been abandoned because of their disabilities.
NAFAA also announced plans to extend its relief services to southeastern Liberia by early January 2026, as part of broader efforts to improve livelihoods and food security nationwide.
The Ministry of Agriculture and NAFAA said the collaboration underscores Liberia’s ongoing push to strengthen food security while supporting local farmers and vulnerable populations—especially during a season centered on sharing, compassion, and community.
For More News And Analysis About Liberia Follow Africa-Press
