Professor Francis said that the Bio administration was particularly concerned about the huge cost on government importing rice into the country, saying it was not sustainable and that government was determined to invest in the agricultural sector and to enhance large food production that would ensure food security in the country. He noted that producing enough food to feed everyone was a strategic priority for the new government.

“Our rating last year as the third hungriest country in the world is unacceptable. That is why as a responsible government, we have committed ourselves to enhance food security in the country. This is a commitment from the President and we have the passion to achieve what the President wants for this country,” he said.

“President Bio’s commitment to food production has been manifested in his public pronouncement that all political leaders must have farms and must be involved in farming in the country. We need a complete turnaround in our food production. In doing so, we have to empower our women and youth because they are the most productive capital and capacity in the agricultural sector,” the Chief Minister added.

A representative of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Joseph Brima, said they were particularly delighted about the new government’s commitment.