VP Koung Commissions Multi-Million-Dollar Food Processing Factory in Gardnersville

In a landmark development for Liberia’s economic revival and industrial growth, Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr. officially commissioned the newly constructed Liberia Food Processing Factory on Friday. The state-of-the-art facility, located in Gardnersville, was established by Liberia Food Processing Inc., a subsidiary of the long-standing A-Z Corporation, and represents a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to achieve food security and reduce dependency on imports. With an initial capacity to produce 1,000 tons of mayonnaise per month, the facility is already employing 26 Liberians, all of whom have undergone extensive training by European technical experts in equipment operation and maintenance. Management disclosed plans to introduce a second production shift soon, a move that is expected to double the workforce and expand training opportunities for Liberian youth. “This factory is more than just machinery,” Vice President Koung said during his remarks at the commissioning ceremony. “It’s a symbol of belief in Liberia’s potential. It stands as a beacon of job creation, training, and national resilience.” VP Koung hailed the project as a key deliverable under President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, which focuses on strengthening Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. He underscored the importance of homegrown manufacturing as a cornerstone of the administration’s vision to uplift the Liberian economy. The Vice President also commended Mr. Kamal Merhi, CEO and founder of A-Z Corporation, for his unwavering dedication to Liberia over several decades. “This is a company that has stood with Liberia through the 1980 coup, the civil war, Ebola, and the COVID-19 pandemic. That kind of loyalty sends a strong message: Liberia is open for business, and this government is ready to support serious investors,” Koung stated. In his remarks, Mr. Merhi revealed that the Gardnersville factory is only the first phase of a much larger investment initiative. Phase II will include local production of tomato paste, ketchup, noodles, seasoning cubes, and bouillon tablets—all aimed at reducing import dependence and supporting Liberia’s economic self-sufficiency. “Our total investment so far exceeds USD $12 million, and we are just getting started,” Mr. Merhi announced. “This facility is not just about food—it’s about creating jobs, building skills, and keeping value within the Liberian economy.” He emphasized the factory’s broader economic impact, noting that it would directly and indirectly benefit local farmers, transport operators, small businesses, and retailers—while also conserving foreign exchange by reducing food imports. Also speaking at the commissioning, the Minister of Commerce and Industry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enabling industrial development through supportive policies and improved infrastructure. “By adding value to local products, we reduce dependency on imports, improve food security, and create sustainable jobs,” the Minister said. She called on Liberian entrepreneurs to take advantage of the favorable climate being created for local industry. “This is your time. The government is doing its part, but the private sector must take the lead. Start small, grow steadily, and be part of rebuilding our national industries.” She further disclosed that the Boakai administration is working to expand export opportunities within ECOWAS and globally, adding that value-added goods like those produced at the new factory position Liberia competitively on the world stage. All three keynote speakers hailed the Liberia Food Processing Factory as a model for public-private partnership and a blueprint for successful investment in local industry. The project is a shining example of how both foreign and domestic investors can contribute to national development through job creation, skills transfer, and technological advancement. As Liberia charts a course toward economic diversification and industrial self-reliance, the Gardnersville factory stands as a testament to what is possible when commitment, investment, and vision align. “We are here to stay,” Mr. Merhi concluded. “A-Z Corporation and Liberia Food Processing Inc. remain fully committed to serving Liberia and contributing meaningfully to the country’s balance of trade.”