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Written by Thomas West
Deputy Agriculture Minister for Regional Development Research and Extension, Moses Gbaryan, has urged cooperative societies in Liberia to prioritize the needs of smallholder farmers and to operate with the highest standards of integrity. His appeal was made during the observance of International Cooperatives Day, a global event celebrating the contributions of cooperatives to socio-economic development.
This year’s International Cooperative Day was held in Voinjama, Lofa under the theme “Food Security and Sustainability through Cooperatives,” underscoring the importance of cooperative enterprises in achieving sustainable development goals.
Addressing stakeholders in Voinjama, Lofa County, Minister Gbaryan emphasized the indispensable role of smallholder farmers in Liberia’s agricultural sector and the pivotal support cooperative societies can provide. “Smallholder farmers are the backbone of our agriculture, yet they often face significant challenges. Cooperative societies must focus their efforts on these farmers, ensuring they have access to necessary resources, training, and market opportunities,” he said.
Minister Gbaryan highlighted several critical areas where cooperatives can significantly impact smallholder farmers, including providing agricultural inputs, offering technical training, and facilitating market access. He urged cooperatives to adopt innovative solutions to tackle issues such as climate change, pest infestations, and financial constraints.
In addition to prioritizing smallholder farmers, Minister Gbaryan called on cooperative societies to uphold the highest standards of integrity in their operations. He stressed that transparency, accountability, and ethical practices are essential for building trust and ensuring the sustainability of cooperative efforts. “Integrity must be at the core of every cooperative’s mission. Only through honest and transparent practices can we ensure long-term success and gain the trust of our farmers and communities,” Gbaryan stated.
The call to action by Deputy Minister Gbaryan serves as a reminder of the vital role cooperative societies play in the nation’s development. When the interests of smallholder farmers are prioritized, cooperatives would contribute significantly to achieving sustainable development goals and improving the overall well-being of Liberia’s agricultural communities.
