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By LANJNET Reporter
The Chief Executive Officer of Liberia Feed Yourself Agriculture Initiative, James Kollie Galakpai has called for urgent measures to address food security in the country. This plea comes amid growing concerns over the nation’s ability to sustain its food supply and the increasing challenges faced by farmers.
In a recent statement, Mr. Kollie Galakpai emphasized the critical need for a concerted effort to bolster agricultural production and ensure that Liberians have consistent access to nutritious food. “Food security is not just about ensuring people have enough to eat; it is about ensuring that the food is nutritious, safe, and produced sustainably,” he stated.
The Liberia Feed Yourself Agriculture Initiative CEO also stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and international partners to achieve these goals. “We need a multi-stakeholder approach to tackle food security. Everyone has a role to play, from policymakers and businesses to farmers and consumers.”
Based in Wenwuta Town, Zolowo Township, Zorzor District, Lofa County, the Liberia Feed Yourself Agriculture Initiative is dedicated to empowering local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices across Liberia. This agriculture enterprise covering more than 150 acres of land space is currently involved with integrated farming with the cultivation of rice, cocoa, oil palm, vegetables, and breeding of livestock. As the country grapples with the ongoing effects of climate change and economic challenges, the call for urgent action on food security has never been more pressing.
The young farmer underscored that food security is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of national stability and development. “Ensuring that every Liberian has access to adequate and nutritious food must be a top priority. We cannot afford to delay.”
He called for greater investment in mechanized farming to boost agricultural productivity and improve food security in the country. Kollie Galakpai has been at the forefront of promoting modern farming techniques among his peers and believes that mechanization is key to transforming Liberia’s agricultural sector. His farm has a rice mill donated by the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) with the capacity of milling 600 to 700kg per hour.
The young agriculturist believes mechanized farming will allow for the cultivation of larger areas in a shorter time compared to manual labor. Tractors, harvesters, and other machinery can significantly increase the efficiency of planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops.
He indicated while the initial investment in machinery can be high, it reduces the long-term dependence on manual labor. This can help address labor shortages and reduce the cost of production. Galakpai said mechanized farming would also alleviate the physical burden on farmers, allowing them to engage in other economic activities or improve their quality of life through better working conditions.
Galakpai appealed to policymakers, investors, and international partners to recognize the potential of mechanized farming and take decisive action. “We need a concerted effort to modernize our agricultural sector,” he said. “With the right support, Liberian farmers can not only feed our nation but also become competitive in regional and global markets.”
As Liberia continues to recover from years of civil conflict and economic challenges, the agriculture sector offers a promising pathway to sustainable development. By investing in mechanized farming, the country can unlock the full potential of its agricultural resources, improve food security, and create economic opportunities for its youth.
