Liberia Government, WFP Extend School Feeding Program Through 2028 MOU

The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Education, has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with the World Food Programme (WFP) aimed at sustaining and strengthening the National School Feeding Programme through 2028. The agreement, covering the period 2026 to 2028, represents another step toward Liberia's transition to greater national ownership of school feeding, with the government expected to assume increasing responsibility for the programme's planning, financing and implementation.

The legal significance of this development lies in its potential impact on education policy and the role of international organizations in supporting national initiatives. The extension of the school feeding program through 2028 suggests a commitment to ensuring that children have access to nutritious meals while at school, which can help reduce barriers to attendance and improve educational outcomes.

The relevant statutes and regulations governing this agreement are likely to be found in the Education Act of Liberia, which outlines the framework for education policy and programming. The Ministry of Education's role in implementing the National School Feeding Programme is also guided by the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) Regulations, which govern public procurement and contracting processes.

The key parties involved in this agreement are the Government of Liberia, represented by the Ministry of Education, and the World Food Programme. The WFP will continue to provide technical and institutional support to strengthen the systems needed to ensure that school feeding becomes more sustainable and effectively managed by the Liberian Government.

Practitioners should monitor developments related to this agreement, particularly with regards to the expansion of the School Connect digital platform and the increased emphasis on technology, monitoring, and accountability. Attorneys advising clients involved in education or international development initiatives may also want to consider the implications of this agreement for their work.