The Liberian Senate has called for an immediate audit of a $200 million World Bank‑funded agricultural initiative, citing concerns over accountability and transparency. The resolution, adopted on 24 November 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).
Senator Nathaniel F. McGill prompted the action after raising questions about the disbursement and management of funds for the two projects. He emphasized the need to ensure that the programs effectively improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and strengthen Liberia’s agricultural sector. The combined $200 million initiatives aim to modernize smallholder agriculture, boost agribusiness productivity, and support rural economic development across the country.
The audit will examine fund utilization, program implementation, and potential gaps in oversight, providing critical insights for future decision‑making. The Senate’s move underscores its commitment to transparency, good governance, and ensuring that international funding reaches its intended beneficiaries.
The final decision on the future of these World Bank‑funded projects will depend on the GAC audit report, which is expected to detail compliance, efficiency, and accountability measures. The report will be closely watched, as its findings will have significant implications for the continuation and improvement of STAR‑P and RETRAP.
By demanding this audit, the Liberian Senate takes a significant step toward promoting accountability in the management of international funds, helping to identify areas for improvement and offering recommendations to enhance project implementation. The outcome will be crucial in determining the next steps for the projects and ensuring they achieve their intended objectives.
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