Lofa County, Liberia: The Recovery of Economic Activity for Liberian Informal Sector Employment (REALISE) Project has marked a significant milestone with its first successful harvest in Lofa County. This achievement highlights the potential of community-driven agriculture in boosting food production and creating sustainable income opportunities for local farmers.
Lofa County, known for its fertile highlands and lush landscapes, has long been considered a prime location for agricultural activities. Through the REALISE Project’s Community Livelihood and Agriculture Support (CLAS) component, three farming groups in the county have demonstrated remarkable progress in food production, particularly in peanut and okra cultivation.
Among the standout successes, John Town and Tenebu have emerged as leading peanut producers. The farming group in John Town cultivated approximately 37.7 acres, yielding an impressive 67 bags of peanuts, which generated LD$ 357,200 in sales. Meanwhile, Tenebu harvested 20 bags of peanuts, reserving 15 bags for future cultivation while selling five bags for LD$ 25,000. This strategic approach ensures both immediate income generation and future sustainability.
Additionally, the Kpornodu Bendu farming group successfully harvested okra, contributing to the region’s agricultural diversity and food security.
The REALISE Project is dedicated to enhancing community-led agriculture by providing essential resources such as business skills training, climate-smart agricultural practices, and market linkage support. The initiative operates with guidance from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, ensuring that farmers receive the necessary extension services to maximize their yields and profitability.
Under the current phase of CLAS implementation, 192 beneficiary farming groups are operating across eight of Liberia’s 15 counties. Each group is expected to cultivate 36 acres of land with seasonal crops over the course of one year. Furthermore, the project provides community grants to support local development initiatives.
Financed by the World Bank, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), and the French Development Agency (AFD), the REALISE Project exemplifies a collaborative effort to revitalize Liberia’s informal agricultural sector. By fostering sustainable farming practices and strengthening market access, the project is transforming Lofa County into a model for agricultural development and rural economic empowerment.
With the success of the first harvest, the REALISE Project continues to pave the way for a more food-secure and economically resilient Liberia, ensuring that local farmers have the tools and resources needed to thrive.
Total Visit : 26262