Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN) Promote informed journalism and public engagement on agricultural and environmental nalists Network (LAEJN)
By Thomas West/ 0888972432/0775084260/[email protected]
Over the past few months, Bong County has witnessed a rapid increase in lowland rice farming. Smallholder farmers across the county have embraced lowland rice cultivation, drawn by the crop’s potential for higher yields and resilience in the region’s climate. The shift is attributed to favorable weather conditions, improved farming techniques, and government support through the Emergency Rice Production Offensive (ERPO) project at the Ministry of Agriculture.
Farmers in the county are increasingly utilizing the vast lowland areas for rice cultivation, taking advantage of the fertile soils and abundant water supply in these regions. The adoption of improved farming techniques, facilitated by local and international agricultural organizations, has significantly increased rice yields.
The rise in rice farming is not only boosting local food security but also generating economic opportunities. The increased production is leading to the establishment of new markets and job opportunities, further invigorating the local economy. Experts believe that continued investment in agricultural infrastructure and support for smallholder farmers will be crucial for sustaining this growth. They call on the government to enhance its support for lowland rice farming to ensure the sector’s continued success and resilience.
As agriculture continues to hold a central place in the Boakai-Koung administration’s agenda, the initiative by local farmers is not only improving food security but also reflecting the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sector.
Many of these farmers, who previously engaged in small-scale farming, are now transitioning to more commercialized operations, significantly increasing their yields. This boost in rice production is timely, as rice remains Liberia’s staple food, and its availability is critical to the country’s food security.
For years, Liberia has relied heavily on imported rice to meet its demands, but efforts like those in Salala are part of a broader push to reduce this dependency and promote local production. The rise in rice farming in Salala is largely attributed to the determination of local farmers, many of whom have taken collective action to expand their rice fields. With assistance from agricultural cooperatives, these farmers are accessing better seeds, fertilizers, and modern tools, leading to increased productivity.
As more farmers in other parts of Bong County increase their rice output, Liberia’s reliance on imported rice is expected to decrease. This will not only reduce the country’s vulnerability to global market fluctuations but also strengthen the local economy, as farmers will be able to sell their produce both locally and regionally.
Despite these positive developments, many farmers are calling on the Liberian government to provide more substantial support. They have requested assistance in the form of access to better tools, seeds, and farming equipment, as well as improved infrastructure to transport their produce to market.
