Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN) Promote informed journalism and public engagement on agricultural and environmental nalists Network (LAEJN)
By: Wilmot Konah/ 0555666441 / 0775s793638 [email protected]
Christopher Sankolo, the new Director General of the Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA), has introduced significant reforms to revitalize the institution since taking office in April 2024.
In a telephone interview with the Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network, Mr. Sankolo shared key updates, including the restoration of Liberia’s membership in the International Coffee and Cocoa Organization (ICCO) and its reintegration into various other regional and global agreements.
Among the major developments he highlighted, Sankolo pointed to the successful restoration of basic utilities—water and electricity—at the LACRA office, a critical step in improving working conditions. He also introduced new financial policies designed to combat waste and mismanagement, ensuring more responsible oversight of LACRA’s resources.
One of the more notable acquisitions during Sankolo’s tenure is the purchase of a brand-new Land Cruiser jeep, which replaces a vehicle from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) project that was reported missing under the previous administration.
Sankolo also emphasized his efforts to improve staff morale, with ongoing initiatives to boost employee motivation, and noted that there are continuous dialogues with key stakeholders aimed at strengthening the institution’s operations.
Reflecting on the state of LACRA when he took over, Sankolo did not mince words. He described inheriting an institution that was in disarray, with a bank balance of only 470 US dollars. He also revealed that Liberia’s participation in crucial regional and international bodies had been suspended and that key office equipment, including televisions and an icebox, had been removed during the previous leadership.
Despite these setbacks, Mr. Sankolo remains committed to restoring LACRA’s full functionality and efficiency, with a specific focus on the regulation of Liberia’s oil palm, cocoa, and coffee industries.
LACRA’s role as a regulatory authority is crucial in overseeing the growth and sustainability of key agricultural commodities. Sankolo’s reforms will focus on implementing modern and effective regulatory frameworks for the oil palm, cocoa, and coffee sectors. This includes improving quality control, increasing transparency in licensing, and ensuring fair practices across the value chain.
Looking beyond immediate reforms, the director general envisions a future where LACRA plays an instrumental role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices in Liberia. According to him , innovation and the adoption of new technologies, LACRA will help ensure that Liberia’s agriculture sector remains competitive on the global stage while addressing environmental challenges such as climate change.
