Abidjan, March 8, 2024 – "Ehn, the way things are now, we need all the help we can get!" This sentiment, echoing through Liberian markets, found voice in President Joseph Boakai's recent visit to the National Center for Agricultural Research (CNRA) in Abidjan. Boakai seeks a strong Liberia-Ivory Coast agricultural collaboration to boost Liberia's farming sector.
Liberia Seeks Ivorian Expertise
President Boakai, a former Liberian Minister of Agriculture himself, was clearly impressed by the CNRA's work. "This place, it's something else! You Ivorians are doing big things with farming," he remarked. His key goal: deeper Liberia-Ivory Coast agricultural collaboration.
"Our people, we need to work together. We want our farmers and your experts to mix brains together, make something good for us all," Boakai emphasized.
Focus on Research and Development
This Liberia-Ivory Coast agricultural collaboration wouldn't be just talk. President Boakai envisions a practical partnership: "Your people, they've got good heads for this farming research. We want them working with ours, making our crops stronger, giving us better yields."
This focus on research echoes the concerns of Liberian farmers, who often say, "Things are hard, the soil isn't like before. We need seeds that can fight back!"
Strong Support from Ivory Coast
President Boakai wasn't alone on this mission. Accompanying him were top Ivorian officials like Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé and Minister of Agriculture Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani. This shows strong Ivorian commitment to the Liberia-Ivory Coast agricultural collaboration.
"We are brothers," Minister Adjoumani affirmed. "If Liberia prospers, we all prosper. Our researchers are ready to share, to learn, and to build something that benefits both our nations."
A History of Collaboration
President Boakai's visit builds upon an existing friendship between Liberia and Ivory Coast. Upon arrival, he met with President Alassane Ouattara, signaling high-level support for this agricultural initiative.
Hope for the Future
Could this Liberia-Ivory Coast agricultural collaboration be the start of something big? Liberian farmers are hopeful. "Maybe, just maybe," one market seller mused, "this thing will bring better days. Our children need full bellies, not empty promises."
Only time will tell the true impact. But one thing is clear: Liberia and Ivory Coast are taking a bold step towards a future where agriculture drives development, one seed at a time.
