Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN) Promote informed journalism and public engagement on agricultural and environmental nalists Network (LAEJN)
By LAEJNET Bong Correspondent
A pig farmer residing in Gbarnga, Bong County David Paye is urgently seeking assistance from the Ministry of Agriculture to sustain his farm amid escalating costs of feed and medication. Paye, who has dedicated over 3 years to pig farming, is now grappling with severe financial difficulties that threaten the survival of his livestock and livelihood.
According to Mr. Paye, the cost of pig feed has increased by over 25% most recently, driven by disruptions in the supply chain and higher prices for agricultural inputs. Additionally, the cost of essential medications, including vaccines and antibiotics, has surged, exacerbating the financial strain on Paye’s farm. These challenges have made it increasingly difficult for him to provide adequate nutrition and healthcare for his pigs.
Mr. Paye disclosed he initially started the breeding of American Chicken, which was very good but later changed to pig farming because the chicken feed was very expensive with each bag costing between $ 35-40 USD and there was also a short supply of feed for on the local market at some point. David Paye started his pig farming venture with just two pairs and now has 34 pigs in three cages.
“Our target is from now to the end of this year we are anticipating having 75 to 100 pigs. We have a lot of challenges when it comes to buying feed and the expansion of business because almost every time we have to create a new cage to accommodate our piglets. We are therefore asking other partners especially the Ministry of Agriculture livestock division to please provide technical and financial assistance to us because we want to grow pigs on a very large scale in Bong County and Liberia at large’’ Mr. Paye emphasized in his appeal.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Paye remains hopeful. He is exploring alternative feed sources and collaborating with local veterinarians to find cost-effective solutions for animal healthcare. “We are resilient and determined to overcome these obstacles,” Paye said. “With the right support, we can continue to thrive and contribute to our community’s well-being.”
One major importance for farmers who also cultivate crops is that pig farming provides a way to diversify their income streams. Income from pig sales can complement income from crop production, providing a more stable financial footing. Overall, pig farming not only provides economic benefits directly to farmers but also supports various sectors of the economy, contributing to food security, employment, and rural development.
