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In the quiet community of Gbamue, situated deep within the Jorpolu Clan of Jorquelleh District Number Three, a dedicated group of farmers has embarked on a journey to transform their community’s future.
The Yeagboneya farming group, led by Mr William Kotogboe and Ebeneezer Dolo is combating the issues of hunger and economic instability in their region. Through their focus on lowland rice farming, the group is determined to build a self-sufficient community capable of feeding itself and its neighbors. Despite the challenges posed by climate change, they are proving that with persistence, innovation, and a collaborative spirit, it is possible to flourish.
William Kotogboe, who has become a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture in his community, explained that the Yeagbonkeamah group’s mission began with the realization that their village, like many others, was struggling with food insecurity. “We are a community facing hunger,” Kotogboe said. “We knew we had to do something. We couldn’t keep waiting for external help. We needed to take charge of our food production.” The group decided to focus exclusively on lowland rice farming, an ideal crop for the area’s fertile lowlands.
The group is made up of 27 members, the majority of whom are women, who are working together to cultivate eight hectares (8) of lowland rice fields. Together, they have committed themselves to a communal effort that centers on collective responsibility and shared labor. The focus on rice farming was intentional as rice is a staple food in Liberia and their community and increasing its local production could have an immediate and tangible impact on food security.
“We decided to focus on rice because it is something we can all rely on,” Kotogboe explained. “It’s something everyone in our community consumes. If we can produce enough rice, we won’t have to rely on others for food. We will feed ourselves and our families.” The group’s dedication to growing rice not only aims to address hunger but also to establish a framework for economic sustainability that can be replicated throughout the region.
As Kotogboe stood in the fields of lowland rice, he shared his thoughts with a reporter from the Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network, who went to Gbamue Town to learn more about the group’s work. “We’ve made progress,” he said, looking over the expansive fields where the rice shape gently in the breeze. “This season, we’ve completed the first portion of our harvest. It’s a major milestone for us. We’re excited because it’s proof that our method works.”
The harvest was a turning point for the group, as it was their first large-scale production of rice. “The results are promising,” Kotogboe added, his voice filled with optimism. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to growing even more in the future. Our goal is to build a sustainable system that will not only feed our families but also allow us to expand our reach.”
However, like many farmers in the area, the group has faced major challenges due to climate change. Unpredictable rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells have threatened to undermine their efforts. Despite these difficulties, Kotogboe remains hopeful, crediting the group’s innovative approach to lowland farming for their ability to adapt. “The weather hasn’t always been on our side,” Kotogboe said as he walked across the field, “but we’re adapting. Our lowland rice is growing well, and we are beginning to see the fruits of our labor.”
Standing in the fields, Kotogboe continued, “The changes we’ve made in the way we approach farming are showing results. It proves that with the right resources and the right attitude, we can overcome challenges.”
The harvest has provided the group with a sense of accomplishment, but it has also detail the pressing need for adequate storage facilities. One of the group’s main challenges has been the lack of proper infrastructure to store their rice. Kotogboe explained, “Without the proper facilities, like a warehouse for drying, much of the rice can be damaged or wasted. We need the government’s support to provide these tools so we can preserve our harvest.”
Although the government of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai Sr. has offered some support through funding, Kotogboe noted that much more is needed. “We are still waiting for the assistance promised, especially when it comes to storage and farming equipment. Without these, it’s difficult to scale up our operations and make a real impact,” Kotogboe explained to the reporter.
Despite these obstacles, the group’s spirit remains unwavering. They continue to work together, with members responsible for planting, maintaining the fields, and cooking meals for the laborers who work the land. “We are one team,” Kotogboe said, his regard sweeping across the workers in the field. “Everyone plays a role, and we support each other. If we don’t help one another, we can’t succeed.”
Looking ahead, Kotogboe is optimistic about expanding the group’s efforts, both in terms of production and outreach. “This year, we’ve proven that lowland rice farming can work here. We want to show others that it’s possible to feed ourselves and build a better future,” he said.
The group is not only focused on expanding its operations but also on creating a framework that can be replicated by other communities. “Our goal is to provide food for ourselves, but we also want to inspire others. If we can do it here, other villages and even neighbouring regions can do the same.”
Kotogboe’s vision for the future is ambitious. He wants to see the Yeagbonkeamah group’s success spread beyond Gbamue and throughout the surrounding areas. “We know there’s potential here, and we believe that with the right resources, we can expand our work and feed more people. This is about more than just growing rice; it’s about building a sustainable future for our community and beyond.”
As the group continues its journey, Kotogboe remains hopeful that with continued dedication, teamwork, and support from the government and other organizations, they will not only secure food for their community but also serve as an example of what can be achieved through collective action. “Our community has shown that we can make a difference,” Kotogboe said with pride. “This is just the beginning, and we will continue to work hard to build something that will last.”
In the end, the Yeagboneya farming group’s efforts go far beyond simply producing rice. They are creating a self-sufficient, resilient community where hunger is no longer a constant threat. Through their hard work, vision, and collaboration, the group is proving that with determination, even the most difficult challenges can be overcome.
