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By Nukanah Kollie | kollienukanah94@gmail.com
YELLEQUELLEH DISTRICT, BONG COUNTY – The European Institute of Cooperation and Development (IECD) is supporting smallholder vegetable farmers in Bong County through a targeted program aimed at improving agricultural practices and increasing productivity.
The initiative, led by IECD Field Coordinator Lovetta Lorpu Dolo, focuses on training farmers in sustainable farming techniques, including composting, intercropping, crop rotation, proper spacing, and organic fertilization. In addition to technical training, IECD provides farmer groups with essential inputs such as seeds, tools, organic manure, and fertilizers.
Each farmer group consists of nine members and manages a shared demonstration farm where new techniques are practiced before being adopted on individual farms. IECD staff conduct regular follow-up visits to ensure that farmers are implementing the methods correctly and to provide additional support.
“We train them in both theory and practice,” said Dolo. “When we visit their farms and see the techniques in use, that’s how we know the training is making a difference.”
Several farmers in Yellequelleh District say the support has improved their livelihoods. Jacob Parhmilin, a 39-year-old farmer, said his cabbage production now covers school fees for his children and supports his household.
“IECD gave us the seeds, tools, and training. Now I’m able to earn from my farm and even started building a house,” he said. “But we still face challenges with climate and lack of storage.”
Other farmers raised similar concerns about post-harvest losses. Matthew F. David, another beneficiary, said that without access to proper storage facilities, many farmers lose their produce when buyers do not arrive on time.
“Sometimes we harvest cabbage and have no market. It spoils,” said David. “We urgently need a warehouse to store our crops and preserve them until we can sell.”
Farmers also noted the need for improved access to fertilizers, fungicides, and market linkages to increase profitability and reduce losses due to pests, diseases, and fluctuating demand.
In nearby Gbono Town, farmer Aaron Brown, who began farming after missing out on formal education, said his farm now pays for his child’s schooling. He credited IECD with helping him improve his production methods, but emphasized the need for further support, particularly in fertilizer supply and post-harvest management.
Liberia remains heavily dependent on imported food, but IECD’s program in Bong County is part of broader efforts to strengthen local food systems and reduce reliance on imports.
“Agriculture is the backbone of every nation,” said Dolo. “With the right support, Liberia’s farmers can feed the country.”
IECD’s program continues to operate across Bong County, providing both technical knowledge and critical resources to improve rural livelihoods. However, farmers say sustained support, including investment in infrastructure and access to markets, is essential for long-term impact.
