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By Nathan Kollie
GBARNGA, Bong County – The Director General of the Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA), Christopher D. Sankolo, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalizing Liberia’s coffee industry following a tour of coffee seedling and nursery sites in Gbarnga, Bong County.
During the visit, Sankolo praised LACRA staff and development partners for their dedication to promoting coffee cultivation and establishing nurseries to increase coffee production across the country.
He stressed that collaboration and teamwork are critical to positioning LACRA as a leading institution in advancing agricultural growth, attracting investment, and driving economic development.
Sankolo disclosed that LACRA is pursuing amendments to strengthen its mandate and enhance its capacity to attract investment into Liberia’s agricultural sector. He noted that consultations with members of the Legislature have been positive, with indications that the proposed amendments may receive expedited consideration.
The LACRA Director General also revealed that discussions with an international investment firm based in Dubai have sparked interest in investing up to US$1 billion in Liberia’s coffee industry. According to him, the firm views Liberian coffee as a highly competitive commodity with strong potential in global markets.
Addressing challenges to agricultural investment, Sankolo identified access to land as a major constraint. However, he explained that under the government’s revised agricultural development framework, LACRA would be empowered to work closely with local communities to facilitate mutually beneficial land-use agreements.
He emphasized that communities would remain active partners and retain ownership interests in development initiatives, while investors would contribute to production, processing, and value-addition activities that create jobs and expand economic opportunities.
“Liberia has tremendous potential to significantly increase coffee production and attract processing industries capable of transforming raw commodities into export-ready products,” Sankolo said. “We are laying the groundwork for a new era in Liberia’s coffee sector.”
He added that increased production could strengthen Liberia’s position in international coffee markets and generate substantial economic benefits for farmers and rural communities.
Meanwhile, LACRA Deputy Director for Operations and Technical Services, Godia Alpha Gongolee, announced plans to distribute coffee seedlings to farmers across Liberia.
According to Gongolee, the initiative is designed to expand coffee cultivation, improve agricultural productivity, and create sustainable income opportunities for farmers.
He reaffirmed LACRA’s commitment to supporting local producers through technical assistance, capacity-building programs, and interventions aimed at strengthening Liberia’s agricultural commodity value chains.
