MONROVIA – The political leader of the Movement for Progressive Change, Simeon Freeman, has proposed to the Boakai-led Unity Party Government to invest US$75 million if the government is serious about lifting Liberians out of poverty.
By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr (Tel: +231886458910, Email: [email protected])
Freeman pointed out that the agriculture sector, which President Boakai claims to come from, is being neglected by the current government, with little being allocated to its budget.
He emphasized that with proper support, the agriculture sector could attract more investors, leading to a significant boost in the country’s economy.
Freeman stated that if given the opportunity to lead Liberia, he would invest US$75 million in the agricultural sector to create more jobs and enhance food security in post-war Liberia.
He believes that investing $75 million in the agricultural sector, along with private investment, could help revitalize Liberia’s economy.
Appearing as a guest on the OK Morning Rush on Monday, May 13, 2024, Freeman outlined his plans for Liberia’s recovery process, asserting that under his leadership, there would be a substantial transformation in both the private sector and agriculture.
He pointed out Nigeria’s progress in rice and cocoa production, suggesting that Liberia could achieve similar success with adequate attention to the sector.
Freeman criticized the current leadership, stating that Liberia cannot develop if the issues of private sector investment are neglected by the government led by President Joseph Nyumah Boakai.
He highlighted the importance of agriculture in job creation and food security, noting that despite Liberia’s abundant land and green forests, the country still struggles to feed its population adequately.
Regarding the national budget, Freeman expressed concern that a significant portion of the revenue is allocated to government officials and debt servicing, leaving little for public investment and economic development.
He criticized President Boakai’s allocation of US$1.7 million to a program aimed at training one thousand youths in ICT, questioning the seriousness of the government’s commitment to governance and investment.
Freeman concluded by lamenting the lack of focus on agriculture and sustainable development in President Boakai’s proposed budget, emphasizing the need for strategic planning to address these issues effectively.
