JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Margibi County Senator McGill wants the Ministry of Agriculture to account for the US$200 million project the donors funded.
By Lincoln G. Petersย
Monrovia, Liberia, March 14, 2025โMargibi County Senator Nathaniel F. McGill expresses serious concern about the US$200 million donorsโ project allegedly squandered by the Ministry of Agriculture.
Senator McGill, in a communication to Senate Plenary on Thursday, March 13, 2025, named Star-P and RETRAP Programs, launched under the Ministry of Agriculture with funding from the World Bank and other international partners.ย
McGill is demanding an update on the Star-P and RETRAP Programs, something he describes as necessary and important.ย
โI write to bring to your attention an important matter regarding the Star-P and RETRAP Programs, launched under the Ministry of Agriculture with funding from the World Bank. These two projects amount to approximately two hundred million (US$ 200,000,000) and are aimed at supporting local communities and farmers in expanding agribusiness in Liberia. Notably, under the Star-P program, over forty million (US$ 40, 000,000) was allocated in the past administration for granting micro loans to small farmers across the countryโ, he discloses.ย
He says that in line with the Senateโs commitment to transparency and accountability, the Plenary should invite the Minister of Agriculture to provide a comprehensive update on the status of these programs.ย
โSpecifically, we seek detailed information on the following: a full breakdown of the program, including how funds have been allocated and distributed. The total number of farmers or beneficiaries, who have received loans under these initiativesโ, he states.ย
Senator McGill continues to seek the locations of beneficiaries to ensure nationwide inclusivity and equitable access to support, including the current implementation and management processes of both programs.
He indicates that, given that the program involves loan disbursement, it is important that the Senate track its progress and ensure funds are being utilized effectively to benefit farmers and strengthen Liberiaโs agricultural sector.
โFor reference, a worksheet obtained from the World Bank website detailing aspects of this program is attached. Finally, we request the Plenary to summon the Minister of Agriculture to appear before the full plenary to address issues relating to both programs. Finally, I respectfully urge the Senate to take swift actions in inviting the Minister of Agriculture to provide these necessary updates, reinforcing our commitment to transparency, accountability, and continued support for our small farmersโ, he underscores in the communication. Editing by Jonathan Browne
