Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN) Promote informed journalism and public engagement on agricultural and environmental nalists Network (LAEJN)
Josiah Pailay /+231881913880/+231775260307/[email protected]
Gbarnga City, Bong County: Rev. James S. Paye, Founder and Executive Director of the Rice, Cassava, and Vegetables Producers and Processors Union of Liberia, has issued a passionate call to the national government to increase its support for Liberia’s agriculture sector, which he deems crucial for the nation’s economic development and food security.
In a recent conversation with our reporter in Gbarnga, Rev. Paye highlighted the central role agriculture plays in Liberia’s economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population. However, he also outlined numerous challenges faced by local farmers, including limited access to funding, modern farming techniques, and critical resources such as seeds and fertilizers.
“Liberia is blessed with fertile land and a favorable climate for agriculture, yet our farmers struggle to meet the demands of both local and international markets,” Rev. Paye said. “It is essential that the government prioritizes agriculture in its national development agenda. By investing in this sector, we can create jobs, reduce poverty, and ensure food security for our people.”
Rev. Paye also pointed to the persistence of traditional farming methods among many Liberian farmers, which restrict productivity and yield. He stressed the need for the government to provide training programs and resources that will enable farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices.
Furthermore, Rev. Paye called for the establishment of better infrastructure, such as roads and storage facilities, to facilitate the transportation and preservation of agricultural products.
In his plea, Rev. Paye also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in revitalizing the agriculture sector. “We need collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society to create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem,” he emphasized. “This will not only enhance productivity but also empower farmers and processors.”
As Liberia continues to recover from years of conflict and economic instability, the agriculture sector remains a beacon of hope for many. Observations from local reporters in Bong County suggest that the time to act is now. Liberian farmers are eager to increase their production, but they need the government’s support to make this a reality.
Rev. Paye’s call serves as a reminder of the critical need to prioritize agriculture in Liberia’s development agenda.
