Margibi County Senator McGill wants the Ministry of Agriculture to account for the US$200 million project the donors funded.
By Lincoln G. Peters
Monrovia, Liberia, March 14, 2025—Margibi County Senator Nathaniel F. McGill expresses serious concern about the US$200 million donors’ project allegedly squandered by the Ministry of Agriculture.
Senator McGill, in a communication to Senate Plenary on Thursday, March 13, 2025, named Star-P and RETRAP Programs, launched under the Ministry of Agriculture with funding from the World Bank and other international partners.
McGill is demanding an update on the Star-P and RETRAP Programs, something he describes as necessary and important.
“I write to bring to your attention an important matter regarding the Star-P and RETRAP Programs, launched under the Ministry of Agriculture with funding from the World Bank. These two projects amount to approximately two hundred million (US$ 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 country”, he discloses.
He says that in line with the Senate’s commitment to transparency and accountability, the Plenary should invite the Minister of Agriculture to provide a comprehensive update on the status of these programs.
“Specifically, 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 initiatives”, he states.
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 Liberia’s agricultural sector.
“For 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 farmers”, he underscores in the communication. Editing by Jonathan Browne
