Liberia is set to play a prominent role in global conversations on food security and climate resilience as Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr. departs Monrovia today for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to represent President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. at the United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+4). The high-level gathering runs from July 27–29, 2025, and is expected to convene world leaders, policymakers, and development partners committed to transforming global food systems in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
At the summit’s plenary, Vice President Koung will deliver an address reaffirming Liberia’s determination to combat hunger and malnutrition, while advancing climate-smart agricultural practices that support sustainable growth. His presentation is anticipated to outline the Boakai administration’s blueprint for strengthening the nation’s food systems through bold reforms and strategic partnerships.
Outlining Liberia’s Priorities
In his remarks, Koung will spotlight the government’s priority areas, including empowering smallholder farmers—who form the backbone of Liberia’s agriculture sector—expanding agro-processing to create jobs and reduce post-harvest losses, and cultivating robust public-private partnerships to stimulate domestic food production. These initiatives, officials say, are critical to reducing Liberia’s reliance on food imports while ensuring affordability and accessibility for households across the country.
“Liberia remains resolute in its pursuit of inclusive, climate-smart, and resilient food systems that improve lives and secure a better future for all,” a press statement from the Vice President’s office noted ahead of his departure.
Strategic Bilateral Engagements
Beyond the plenary sessions, Vice President Koung’s itinerary includes several bilateral meetings designed to strengthen Liberia’s regional ties and attract investment into the agriculture sector. He is scheduled to hold discussions with:H.E. Taye Atske Selassie, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
H.E. Mohamoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission
Mr. Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa
According to sources within the Vice President’s office, these engagements will focus on forging stronger regional cooperation, expanding technical assistance, and securing financial support to accelerate Liberia’s agricultural transformation agenda.
Focus on Africa’s Next Generation of Agri-Entrepreneurs
Vice President Koung will also attend a special high-level session organized by the African Union Commission in collaboration with AUDA-NEPAD. The dialogue, themed “The CAADP Kampala Declaration – Driving Africa’s Food Systems Future: NextGen Agri-Food Entrepreneurs in Dialogue with African Leaders”, is scheduled for July 29, 2025.
The session will explore how young African entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector can collaborate with governments to build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems across the continent. Koung is expected to underscore Liberia’s commitment to youth-driven agricultural innovation as a key component of national development.
A Delegation Reflecting Liberia’s Commitment
The Vice President is accompanied by a high-profile Liberian delegation, signaling the country’s strong resolve to advance its agricultural and food security agenda on the global stage. The delegation includes Hon. Samuel A. Stevquoah, Minister of State Without Portfolio, Hon. Ibrahim Al-Bakri Nyei, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for International Cooperation and Integration, Hon. Folton Blasin, Assistant Minister for Administration, Ministry of Agriculture, Madam Jeanine Cooper, Special Envoy on Climate Change and Mr. Trokon A. Taar, Director General, Liberia News Agency
Underscoring Liberia’s Global Role
President Boakai’s decision to delegate Vice President Koung to the summit demonstrates the administration’s commitment to strengthening multilateral partnerships in pursuit of sustainable development. Officials say Liberia’s active participation in such high-level international forums reflects a broader effort to position the nation as a leader in climate resilience and food systems reform in West Africa.
As Liberia joins the global community in charting the future of food security, the Vice President’s message will emphasize that the wellbeing of every Liberian family depends on bold action, collaborative leadership, and unwavering commitment to building a food-secure nation.
