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Press Release
Like many government institutions in Liberia, the Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA) has faced numerous challenges over the years, including low budgetary allocations that have, at times, hampered its operations. However, under the new leadership of Director General Christopher D. Sankolo, there appears to be a renewed commitment to enhancing the institution’s operational efficiency.
In a bid to foster institutional development and effectiveness, LACRA recently hosted a three-day retreat in Zoewinta, Bong County. The retreat, which brought together key personnel of the agency, was designed to reflect on past achievements and chart a new path forward for LACRA.
The event was aimed at enhancing the agency’s internal cohesion and improving its critical role in Liberia’s agricultural sector. The retreat provided a platform for reflection, open discussions, and strategic planning, with a focus on strengthening collaboration and ensuring the regulatory body’s operations are more efficient and resourceful.
LACRA’s leadership hopes to improve service delivery to Liberia’s agricultural industry by refining internal systems and optimizing available resources.
Deputy Agriculture Minister for Extension Services, Moses Gbanyan, delivered the keynote address and urged LACRA staff to take pride in their work.
Speaking on behalf of Agriculture Minister Dr. Alexander Nuetah, Minister Gbanyan called on the staff to confront challenges head-on by openly discussing their obstacles—whether they be logistical, technological, or otherwise.
“Let’s use this retreat as a platform to identify your weaknesses, analyze their root causes, and develop concrete strategies to address them,” Minister Gbanyan stated.
He emphasized the importance of improving communication, streamlining processes, and fostering collaboration among staff members.
Minister Gbanyan also reminded the participants of their crucial role in Liberia’s agriculture sector, noting that the work of LACRA directly impacts the lives of farmers and their families. “Paying attention to your work is critical, as it directly benefits farmers across Liberia,” he added.
In his opening remarks, LACRA Director General Christopher D. Sankolo stressed the importance of unity within the organization, as well as the need for open communication and strong leadership.
He encouraged staff members to feel empowered to express their ideas freely, saying, “Every idea matters, and every voice should be heard.”
Director General Sankolo emphasized that the strength of the institution lies in its people and that through collaboration and effective communication, LACRA can become a model of excellence in agricultural regulation.
The retreat concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among LACRA’s employees, according to Director General Sankolo. He expressed his gratitude to all participants and urged them to maintain the momentum from the event.
“We must stay committed to the mission of rebranding and strengthening LACRA,” Sankolo stated. “Together, as one team, we can achieve the long-term goals of this institution and make a lasting impact on Liberia’s agricultural sector.”
