The Liberian Senate has called for an immediate audit into the management of a $200 million World Bank-funded agricultural initiative, citing concerns over accountability and transparency. The resolution, adopted on November 24, 2025, instructs the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to investigate the Smallholder Agriculture Transformation and Agribusiness Revitalization Project (STAR-P) and the Rural Economic Transformation Project (RETRAP).
The decision follows a communication from Senator Nathaniel F. McGill, who raised concerns over the disbursement and management of funds for the projects. Senator McGill emphasized the need to ensure that the programs are effectively delivering on their objectives of improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and strengthening Liberia’s agricultural sector. The combined $200 million projects aim to modernize smallholder agriculture, boost agribusiness productivity, and support rural economic development across Liberia.
The audit will provide critical insights into fund utilization, program implementation, and potential gaps in oversight. The Senate’s move underscores its commitment to transparency, good governance, and ensuring that international funding reaches its intended beneficiaries. The final decision regarding the future of these World Bank-funded projects will depend on the findings of the GAC audit report, which is expected to outline compliance, efficiency, and accountability measures.
The Liberian Senate’s action is a significant step towards promoting accountability and transparency in the management of international funds. The World Bank has invested heavily in Liberia’s agricultural sector, and it is essential to ensure that these funds are being used effectively. The audit will help to identify areas of improvement and provide recommendations for enhancing the implementation of the projects.
The GAC audit report will be closely watched, as it will have significant implications for the future of the STAR-P and RETRAP projects. The report will provide a comprehensive assessment of the projects’ performance and identify areas where improvements are needed. The Liberian Senate’s commitment to transparency and good governance is a positive step towards ensuring that international funding is used to benefit the intended communities. The outcome of the audit will be crucial in determining the next steps for the projects and ensuring that they achieve their intended objectives.