Monrovia, Liberia – The Chief Executive Officer of the Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP), Bishop Robert Bimba, has held high-level talks with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung, seeking increased government backing for the “I Love Liberian Rice” initiative aimed at boosting domestic rice production.
The meeting, held at the Executive Mansion, centered on strategies to expand local rice production through sustainable farming methods. Bishop Bimba assured the Liberian leaders of CHAP’s readiness to scale up production using the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), a method known for improving yields; while conserving resources.
He, however, appealed to the government to allocate swamp lands in Zubah Town and other parts of the country to support long-term agricultural development.
Bishop Bimba also urged authorities to prioritize the consumption of locally produced rice, particularly for official functions and as state gifts, emphasizing the need to promote Liberian-grown products.
In response, President Boakai commended CHAP’s efforts, noting that the quality and packaging of locally produced rice meet high standards. He described the initiative as a source of national pride and instructed Vice President Koung to collaborate with CHAP to resolve land-related challenges in Zubah Town and beyond.
Meanwhile, CHAP’s Executive Director expressed appreciation to international partners, including Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, for their continued support toward advancing the project and promoting the “I Love Liberian Rice” campaign.
