The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), through its Rural Economic Transformation Project (RETRAP), has dedicated its second vegetable kiosk in Paynesville, aiming to bolster local access to fresh produce and support small-scale farmers. The dedication ceremony took place on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 72nd Junction.
Representing the Minister of Agriculture Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, Assistant Minister for Planning and Development Francis Mulbah highlighted the importance of the initiative.
He emphasized that the new kiosk is part of RETRAP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural economic growth by providing local farmers with additional platforms to market their produce directly to consumers.
He underscored the project’s significance, describing the kiosk as a key part of RETRAP’s commitment to rural economic development. “For the vegetable sector, this initiative has a multidimensional impact,” he said. “It’s not just about market access—it also addresses food security, food quality, and accessibility.”
Mulbah highlighted how urbanization has increased demand for fresh, nutritious food, making facilities like the vegetable kiosks essential for meeting the dietary needs of city residents. Previously, consumers struggled to find affordable vegetables, often resorting to local street vendors with limited stock. Now, with accessible kiosks, residents can conveniently buy fresh produce without the need to search far and wide.
The new kiosks also improve food quality by providing a protected environment where produce is preserved and packaged properly, reducing exposure to elements and minimizing disease risk.
Mulbah emphasized the kiosk’s role as a learning center for farmers and sellers, offering training in record-keeping, marketing, packaging, and hygiene. Additionally, the kiosk introduces a weighing system to ensure fair pricing, creating transparency and trust for both sellers and consumers.
Mr. Tarnue N. Jeke, RETRAP Operations Manager, provided background on the project, noting that it is funded by a World Bank loan that the Liberian government will repay. He urged those involved to ensure funds are used wisely.
According to Jeke, the project’s goal is to increase productivity by providing stable market access for smallholder farmers, including those cultivating vegetables, cassava, rice, and poultry. “A stable market will encourage producers to increase output, generating income for their families and supporting local economies,” he stated.
Augustine B. Kpakolo, Director of the Technical Service Department at the Paynesville City Corporation, represented Mayor Robert S. Bestman II at the event, expressing the city’s gratitude. “We highly appreciate this initiative, which will benefit one of Paynesville’s most prominent communities,” he said, endorsing the program.
The new vegetable kiosk at 72nd Junction is the second in a series that RETRAP plans to expand across Montserrado and other counties, aiming to boost access to fresh produce while enhancing economic opportunities for Liberia’s rural farmers.
