Government, Partners Urged To Build Farmers’ Capacity
By Gabriel M.C. Parker
BOMI, Liberia-Local agricultural authorities in Bomi County are calling for more educational initiatives to help build the capacity of farmers and expand their agricultural productions across the western region.
The call follows a recent farmers review of the impact of the Smallholder Agriculture Development for Food and Nutrition Security (SADFONS) project in this county.
Samuel Smith, the County Agriculture Coordinator, and Amos Zeon, the Regional Coordinator, both stressed the significance of the SADFONS project during a recent survey exercise conducted to assess its impact on local farming communities.
SADFONS, a project focused on strengthening three main agricultural value chains, rice, cassava, and vegetables has played a vital role in increasing agricultural yields for farmers in Bomi County. According to Smith and Zeon, the project has brought substantial benefits to local farmers, including the provision of essential tools that have helped expand production capacities.
“Unlike other farming groups, the SADFONS project has provided farmers with the necessary tools and resources to boost their production levels,” said Samuel Smith. “This support has led to significant increases in yields, allowing smallholder farmers to expand their operations.”
In addition to the provision of tools, the project has also encouraged farmers to join cooperatives, creating a more unified farming community across Bomi County. These cooperatives have become essential in fostering collaboration among farmers and facilitating access to resources that were previously unavailable to them.
“The project has not only increased production but has also helped farmers understand the importance of collective effort,” explained Amos Zeon. “Farmers are now more aware of the benefits of working together, which is crucial for long-term success.”
More needs to be done despite some successes
Despite the project’s successes, local authorities believe that more can be done to help farmers increase their knowledge and skills.
Smith and Zeon are urging the implementing partners to focus on creating more training opportunities for farmers, especially in areas such as climate-smart farming techniques.
They emphasized that understanding climate change and how it affects farming seasons is crucial for improving yields and ensuring food security. “Farmers need to know what to plant and when to plant it, based on the season and the changing climate,” said Mr. Smith.
Both coordinators underscored the importance of providing farmers with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their farming practices.
This knowledge, they believe, will help mitigate the impacts of climate change and allow for more sustainable farming practices.
As part of the call for increased education, local authorities also expressed the need for greater collaboration between agricultural agencies and implementing partners. They believe that by working together, they can help farmers in Bomi County navigate the challenges of modern agriculture and continue to expand their agricultural production.
Critical time in the sector
The coordinators’ appeal comes at a crucial time, as many farmers in Bomi County are still recovering from the effects of previous challenges, including climate variability and limited access to modern farming tools.
With continued support and education, local authorities say they are hopeful that farmers will be better equipped to face these challenges in the future.
As the SADFONS project continues to show positive results, local leaders remain committed to ensuring that its benefits are felt throughout the county. By focusing on education and climate-smart agricultural practices, they hope to foster a more resilient and productive farming community in Bomi County.
The call for increased training and education is expected to gain momentum in the coming months, with local authorities and farming leaders said to be working together to secure more resources and opportunities for Bomi County’s farmers.