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Story Written By Mellish Gbor, Nimba County
In Nimba County, a young agricultural researcher, D Marker Gbarwee, is significantly impacting agriculture. Gbarwee, currently pursuing a BSc in General Agriculture at Liberia International Christian College, has spent the past eight years researching the potential of cowpea, a staple crop in the region. His efforts have culminated in the development of the Markpea, a new, highly resilient variety of cowpea that promises to address pressing issues such as climate change and food insecurity in Liberia.
The Markpea variety, named in honor of Gbarwee’s innovative work, is a testament to his dedication to improving local agriculture. This new variety stands out due to its exceptional adaptability and resilience, making it a vital crop for farmers facing the unpredictable challenges posed by changing weather patterns.
Gbarwee’s research, conducted across four different cowpea species, highlights the importance of scientific innovation in transforming the agricultural landscape of Liberia. His findings emphasize the need for empirical testing and the development of new crop varieties that can meet the growing demands of local farmers.
In an interview with the Liberia Agricultural Journalist Network, Gbarwee stressed the importance of collaboration between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the Ministry of Agriculture. He called for greater support to expand his research and ensure that farmers throughout Nimba County and beyond have access to the resources they need to succeed. Gbarwee envisions a self-reliant Liberia, where the country can produce its food and strengthen its agricultural sector.
His organization SOS-AID which is committed to improving food security and promoting agricultural self-sufficiency shares the vision for a prosperous, self-reliant nation. The organization works with farmers across Liberia to enhance nutritional efficiency and improve household livelihoods, helping to pave the way for a more sustainable future.
SOS-AID calls on NGOs, the Ministry of Agriculture, and all relevant stakeholders to come together and provide the necessary support to realize Liberia’s vision of agricultural self-reliance. Through collective efforts, Liberia can reduce its dependence on foreign aid, strengthen its agricultural sector, and achieve sustainable food security, ushering in a new era of agricultural prosperity for the country.
