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By: Josiah Pailay/+231881913880/+231775260307/ [email protected]
Farmers in Panta District, Bong County, are cultivating a unique variety of rice specifically suitable for diabetic patients. This innovation comes as a result of collaborative efforts among local farmers to help address the increasing prevalence of diabetes in Liberia.
The rice, known for its low glycemic index, offers a healthier alternative to traditional rice varieties, helping to manage blood sugar levels for those living with diabetes. This breakthrough has the potential to improve not only the health of individuals but also to boost local farming as a source of income generation, with demand for such specialized crops expected to rise.
One of the pioneering farmers, Quanuquanei Alfred Kermue, has called on Liberians to see the sector as a major source of income generation. “We need to invest in farming and diversify our crops to meet the growing needs of our people while also opening up new markets,” she said.
Experts believe that the introduction of diabetic-friendly rice could position Liberia as a leader in health-conscious agricultural products in West Africa. However, significant investments in infrastructure and awareness are necessary to maximize the potential of this innovation.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to reconnect Liberians, particularly young people, with farming as a gainful practice and tackle the generational breakdown in agriculture. As the sector continues to evolve, the success in Panta District underscores the potential of Liberian agriculture to not only meet local needs but also tap into emerging health-focused markets globally.
The government and agricultural sector stakeholders are urged to prioritize such innovations and provide the necessary support to ensure the sustainability and scalability of these efforts.
Meanwhile, Farmers in Panta District, Bong County, are appealing for increased support to expand the cultivation of diabetic-friendly rice. The farmers pointed to the lack of modern farming equipment, limited access to fertilizers, and poor road infrastructure as major barriers to expansion. Without adequate resources, they risk missing out on the opportunity to establish Liberia as a leader in health-focused agricultural products.
“We are ready to grow more, but we need help,” Quanuquanei Alfred Kermue said, adding that with the right investments, Liberia could become a hub for exporting diabetic-friendly rice to other countries in the region.
Farmers in the district believe that with proper support, the success of diabetic rice could inspire a larger movement to diversify Liberia’s agriculture, boost income generation, and create more jobs, particularly for young people.
