President Joseph Boakai of Liberia is calling on citizens to prioritize the consumption of locally-grown produce in order to reduce the demand for imported foodstuff.

Speaking on Wednesday when he launched a six-year National Agricultural Development Plan for Liberia under the theme, “Liberians Feed Yourselves Agenda,” the Liberian leader said the need for citizens to return to the soil and grow what they eat can no longer be overly emphasized.

He explained that the 718 million United States dollar National Agricultural Development Plan, which runs from 2024 to 2030, is focused on promoting food self-sufficiency and indigenous wealth creation through agriculture value chain development.

President Boakai further noted that ensuring food security for his country is essential for the growth and development of the nation and its people.

Also speaking during the event was ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia, Josephine NKRUMAH, who rallied the support of international partners, while highlighting the need to include the inputs of farmers into the agriculture plan.