The Government of Liberia constitutes working group to engage Firestone Liberia to discuss mutual interests.
Monrovia, Liberia, December 24, 2024 – In line with President Joseph N. Boakai’s directive to strengthen Liberia’s rubber industry and improve conditions for smallholder farmers, a high-level Government Working Group has engaged with Firestone Liberia on critical issues of mutual interest.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Working Group, chaired by Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, comprises key government officials and advisors tasked with fostering constructive dialogue with Firestone Liberia’s leadership.
“This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing the rubber sector while addressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers and local communities,” the release says.
Members of the Government Working Group are: Minister of Agriculture – Chairman; Minister of Justice – Co-Chairman; Minister of Labor – Member; Minister of Public Works – Member; and Minister of State for Presidential Affairs – Member.
Others are the Minister of Finance & Development Planning – Member, National Investment Commission – Member, and the Economic Advisor to the President – Member.
The release further says the panel will engage Firestone Liberia’s management in regular consultations, focusing on identifying and addressing challenges hindering rubber production, developing strategies to support smallholder farmers and local farmer programs, improving communication and collaboration between the government and Firestone Liberia, and resolving regulatory and logistical concerns tied to concession agreements.
According to the release, the government is keen on maintaining productive partnerships with private sector entities such as Firestone Liberia and notes their significant contributions to the country’s development as the rubber sector remains vital to Liberia’s economy and the livelihood of its smallholder farmers. Press Release
