Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN) Promote informed journalism and public engagement on agricultural and environmental nalists Network (LAEJN)
By: Moses Geply/ Maryland County
Harper, Maryland County – With its rich soil and abundance of water, Maryland is a region where agriculture is at the heartbeat of daily life. As a manifestation of this, a new generation of youths is stepping up in this southeastern county of Liberia to protect the environment, and they’re doing it with the right training.
Arise from Ashes, an environmental and agricultural advocacy group based in Maryland County, has recently concluded an intensive mentorship program in agroecology for students from Cape Palmas High School TVET and William V. S. Tubman University. The training was tailored to transform the farming practices of participants to more environmental friendly approach.
Over two days, these young agriculture entrepreneurs immersed themselves in learning sustainable farming practices aimed at replacing detrimental traditional methods such as tree burning and slash-and-burn farming, which exacerbate deforestation and climate change.
The training facilitated by Dr. William S. Kollie delivered hands-on instruction in sustainable techniques that protect the land while increasing productivity. “Our goal is to empower youth with the tools and knowledge to be environmental stewards in their communities,” said Dr. Kollie. “We’re not just teaching farming—we’re building climate resilience.”
The session sparked dialogue among participants, who discussed the challenges of applying agroecological practices in local communities and recommended stronger policies to support environmental sustainability.
Mr. Willie Torgbor, Head of Cape Palmas High TVET’s Agriculture Department, called the initiative “a timely investment” in Liberia’s future. “These students are now ambassadors of responsible farming,” he said.
As Arise from Ashes prepares to expand this training into rural communities, the organization is calling on partners, donors, and development institutions to support its mission to scale agroecology across Maryland County and beyond.
Each participant received a certificate of completion—a small symbol of a much larger movement taking root in Liberia.
Sarah Wreh, an Agriculture Student at William V. S. Tubman University, shared, “Before this training, I underestimated the environmental impact of traditional farming. Now, equipped with this knowledge, I’m eager to educate my community on sustainable farming methods that protect our land for future generations.”
Daniel Toe, a Student from Cape Palmas High School TVET, expressed his new found perspective, “The agroecology training has opened my eyes to innovative possibilities. Farming can be done smarter and sustainably. I’m proud to be part of a generation committed to positive change.”
As rural Liberia’s agricultural landscape evolves, Arise from Ashes continues to spearhead transformation, equipping youth, empowering farmers, and advocating for climate-smart practices that safeguard livelihoods and the environment.
From classrooms to rural fields, the organization’s dedication to sustainable agriculture in Maryland County lays the groundwork for a resilient and food-secure future.
