GOL and EU Launch €7 million Liberian Food Safety Project in Monrovia

The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and with funding from the European Union (EU), launched the "Liberian Food Safety Initiative (LiFSI)" to enhance food safety practices and compliance across key value chains, including rice, cassava, cocoa, coffee, and fish. The initiative aims to boost trade and promote the safe consumption of locally produced food by employing a holistic, demand-driven approach to food safety.

Funded by the EU and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with various government partners, LiFSI seeks to address critical food safety challenges in Liberia. The initiative focuses on improving food safety practices among consumers, processors, producers, and key stakeholders. By strengthening the national food control program, supporting conformity assessment institutions, assisting processing companies in meeting compliance requirements, and increasing awareness of food safety standards, LiFSI is expected to boost local trade and contribute to Liberia's economic development.

During the launch, Acting Minister of Commerce and Industry, Hon. Tanneh Nyenkan-Nimley, highlighted the global importance of food control systems in protecting public health, preventing foodborne illnesses, and fostering economic growth through improved trade regulations. She expressed gratitude to the European Union for funding the initiative, emphasizing its benefits for both private and public stakeholders. Hon. Nyenkan-Nimley also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with UNIDO to ensure successful implementation.

Mr. Sayor Wahtoson, Chairman of the Liberia Consumer Protection Association (LCPA), also expressed gratitude to the European Union for its many contributions to Liberia, which he believes will help the country advance in alignment with other nations. He added that he is pleased to see a project focused on enhancing food safety practices within the selected value chains that directly impact consumers.

Mr. Wahtoson urged all project partners and stakeholders to diligently adhere to safety practices, which, in turn, will help protect consumers.

Ms. Maria Winnubst, representing the EU Delegation in Liberia, emphasized that the EU's €7 million initiative is not just a project but a vital process requiring collaboration among stakeholders to address food safety and promote sustainable, healthy consumption for Liberians and local businesses. The initiative aligns with the EU’s Global Gateway agenda, transitioning from productivity-focused approaches to comprehensive "Farm to Fork" strategies. 

Ms. Winnubst reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s sustainable development, highlighting the importance of cross-ministerial coordination to ensure safer food and sustainable practices. She reiterated the EU’s readiness to assist Liberia alongside its member states.

Christina Hefel, Industrial Development Expert and Project Manager at UNIDO, stressed the essential role that enhanced food safety practices and compliance play in achieving safer food for sustainable and resilient businesses. “If you want to ensure food security and feed the entire country, you must address food safety,” she said.

Hon. Stephen Y. Mambu, Director General of the Liberia Standards Authority (LiSA), shared his appreciation to the European Union for funding this project and believes it will improve the services of the Liberia Standards Authority by enabling advanced and high-quality testing of locally made products in Liberia.