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By George C. Kollie
Rural Montserrado Bureau Chief
The Cooperative Development Agency (CDA) has officially certified the Liberia Farmers’ Cooperative Society Ltd in Todee Statutory District, Montserrado County, marking a significant milestone in agricultural development in Rural Montserrado.
The certification ceremony, held in Pleemu Clan, brought together farmers, local district authorities, and members of the cooperative, who pledged their full support to the Government of Liberia’s ARREST Agenda.
The certification signifies that the Todee-based agricultural cooperative has been formally recognized by the government after completing all required stages of registration and compliance.
The partnership is expected to boost agricultural productivity, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and promote sustainable farming practices within the district.
Speaking during the ceremony, CDA Assistant Registrar Madam Diana Glay praised members of the Liberia Farmers Cooperative Society Ltd for their commitment to sustainable agricultural practices since the cooperative’s establishment.
Madam Glay explained that before an organization can be certified as a cooperative, it must first obtain a permit and subsequently meet specific certification requirements. These include the election of officials to be trained by the CDA, the adoption of a standard by-law and constitution, the establishment of a visible office location, the opening of a bank account, the development of a written business plan, and the erection of a signboard indicating the cooperative’s location.
For his part, Co-Chairperson Jonathan Reeves disclosed that the cooperative is currently operating on 50 acres of farmland planted with cassava, a vision initiated by Mr. Saywalah Kesselly after observing the enthusiasm and commitment of men and women in Todee District.
In his acceptance remarks, Chairman and vision bearer Mr. Saywalah Kesselly pledged the cooperative’s commitment to working closely with residents of Todee District and the Government of Liberia to help achieve the objectives of the ARREST Agenda.
Chairman Kesselly described the certification as a testament to the cooperative’s dedication to improving farming practices and ensuring long-term prosperity for the district. He further assured residents that plans are underway to expand the project by an additional 50 acres, which will be used to cultivate a variety of seeds sourced from different countries for distribution to local farmers.
Local officials also welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the collaboration will strengthen the agricultural sector and contribute to broader economic growth in the district.
Commissioner Jonathan Yorfee of Tolbert-Ta Township pledged his office’s full support to advancing the interests of the Liberia Farmers Cooperative Society Ltd, noting that the initiative will help create job opportunities for citizens of Todee Statutory District.
