Foya, Lofa County– The Agricultural and Infrastructure Investment Company (AIIC) is at the forefront of transforming Liberia’s rice value chain. As a grantee of the World Bank’s Start-P Project under the Ministry of Agriculture, AIIC has significantly enhanced rice production, processing, and packaging capabilities, addressing key challenges in the agricultural sector.
By: G. Watson Richards, contributing writer/+231880381808
Previously sponsored by USAID, AIIC has received crucial logistical support through the Start-P Project. Notably, this includes a state-of-the-art color machine valued at US$32,000, a tracker worth US$35,000, and a daft truck costing US$45,000.
These investments have bolstered AIIC’s operational capacity, enabling the company to produce an impressive 16 metric tons of rice per hour, equating to 40 bags of the renowned Liberian Queen rice, which is 5% broken, each weighing 50 kilograms.
AIIC’s commitment to improving food security extends beyond production. The company runs two vital school feeding programs in collaboration with Mercy Corps and the World Food Programme (WFP), ensuring nutritious meals for children across the country.
“We also have two school feeding programs across the country in collaboration with Mercy Corps and the World Food Programme (WFP),” said Jangai V. Fofana, AIIC General Supervisor.
This initiative underscores AIIC’s dedication to community development and education.
Despite these advancements, AIIC faces significant financial challenges, particularly in securing the necessary funds to purchase pallet rice from local farmers.
The company sources rice in two main categories: lowland and upland. Lowland rice is purchased at a cost of US$17 per 52 pallets on a scale, while upland rice is bought for US$16 per 52 pallets.
This pricing structure reflects the varied growing conditions of rice and associated costs.
“The major challenge we face is acquiring enough cash to consistently purchase rice from local farmers,” stated Fofana. “Our goal is to support the agricultural community and ensure a steady supply of high-quality rice, but financial constraints limit our capacity.”
AIIC’s efforts are a testament to the potential of strategic investments in agriculture.
By enhancing processing capabilities and supporting local farmers, AIIC is not only driving economic growth but also contributing to Liberia’s food security and overall development.
As AIIC continues to navigate these challenges, the company remains committed to its mission of transforming Liberia’s rice industry. With sustained support and investment, AIIC is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s agricultural future.
About AIIC:
The Agricultural and Infrastructure Investment Company (AIIC) is a leading entity in Liberia’s rice value chain, focusing on aggregation, processing, and packaging.
As a grantee of the World Bank’s Start-P Project and a former USAID-sponsored organization, AIIC leverages strategic investments to enhance production efficiency and support local farmers.
Jangai V. Fofana expressed confidence that if this company is fully supported by the government and other local and international NGOs, the country will reduce the importation of rice.