“We Are Not Responsible for the Past, But We Are Responsible for Providing for Now,” President Boakai Asserts, as Government Receives 304 Agricultural Machines from China
Delivering the consignment of machines on behalf of the Government and People of China, the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Liberia, His Excellency Yin Chengwu, reaffirmed China's commitment to working with Liberia to promote agricultural modernization and common development.
He said China stands ready to work with Liberia to achieve food security, stressing that "agriculture is fundamental to national security and socioeconomic development." Ambassador Yin noted that agricultural development is closely linked to food security, people's well-being, social stability, and national development, adding that agriculture remains a top priority under President Joseph Boakai's ARREST Agenda.
The Chinese Ambassador said his country, as a development partner, remains willing to strengthen agricultural cooperation and support poverty reduction efforts in Liberia. "China is willing to enhance agricultural development and strengthen poverty reduction strategies in Liberia," he stated.
He acknowledged that Liberia is blessed with abundant agricultural resources but noted that considerable room remains to improve crop production, agricultural productivity, mechanization and agro-processing capacity.
Ambassador Yin further emphasized the need to move from traditional farming practices to modern agricultural systems, improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.
The Chinese Envoy reaffirmed his country's readiness to deepen agricultural cooperation with Liberia, describing the project as "a new starting point" in advancing the two countries' partnership. He also called for continued cooperation to help Liberia realize its agricultural potential and improve the livelihoods of its people.
Speaking at the handover ceremony of the three hundred and four (304) agricultural machines given by the Government of the People's Republic of China, President Boakai enjoined those serving in his Government to prioritize the provision of essential services, including reliable electricity, durable roads and improved infrastructure, while ensuring that agriculture becomes a major driver of national development.
“We are not responsible for the past. Our promise is to ensure that you have them now,” intimating that Liberians deserve practical solutions to longstanding development challenges rather than continued excuses.
The President urged the Ministry of Agriculture, to ensure that the equipment are made accessible to farmers across the country and operated by qualified technicians. He warned against establishing agricultural facilities in the counties without the machinery and trained technical personnel required to make them functional, stressing that the value of such gifts must be measured by results, not ceremonies. “When people give you gifts, the appreciation is not ceremonial; it is for them to see results,” he said.
He cautioned the Ministry to move from theoretical exchanges to practical work that drives agricultural viability. He noted, “I have lived long enough to listen to plenty talk; but what I want to see is action”.
The Liberian Leader continued by stressing Liberia's commitment to strengthening its longstanding relationship with the People's Republic of China, praising Beijing for its continued cooperation and support across various development sectors. He expressed gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese Ambassador, describing China as a dependable partner in Liberia's development efforts.
In his remarks, the sector head, Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, described the donation as a significant milestone in Liberia's agricultural transformation, noting, "The 304 agricultural machines that are handed over today represent more than a generous contribution. He said they symbolize a shared commitment to modernizing Liberia's agriculture, increasing productivity, strengthening food security, and creating economic opportunities for our people."
He disclosed that the Ministry of Agriculture has established 13 mechanization hubs across Bong, Nimba, Lofa, Margibi, Montserrado, and Bomi Counties to make machinery services accessible to farmers. He said the Ministry is working with the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission to develop a private-sector management arrangement that will ensure efficient operations and affordable services.
The Minister also announced that 130 Liberians, mostly young people, have been selected for a 40-day training programme in machinery operation and maintenance, with six Chinese specialists providing technical support. He noted that the initiative aligns with the National Agriculture Development Plan (2024–2030) and the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
Dr. Nuetah joined President Boakai in expressing gratitude to the Chinese Government for the donation, reinforcing the Ministry's commitment to extending mechanization hubs to the remaining nine counties. This, he added, will begin with Southeastern Liberia, ensuring that the donated equipment delivers lasting benefits to the country's agricultural sector.
Historically, agricultural cooperation between Liberia and the People's Republic of China dates back to 2006, when China began significant assistance to Liberia's agricultural sector. Following Liberia's civil conflict, China provided approximately US$1 million worth of agricultural tools and equipment to support the revitalization of local food production. The assistance included farming tools, tractors, rice milling machines, water pumps, and other agricultural supplies.
Another major milestone was the establishment of the China-Aided Agricultural Technology Demonstration Center at the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) in Suakoko, Bong County. Upon the signing of an agreement in March 2008, the nearly US$6 million facility was officially handed over in July 2010 to promote agricultural research, mechanization, technology transfer, and capacity-building.
The partnership was further strengthened in June 2024 through a Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural Cooperation, culminating in the recent donation of 304 pieces of agricultural machinery and to Liberia.
