Monrovia, Liberia โ March 28, 2026 โ The Ministry of Agricultureโs Smallholder Agriculture Transformation and Agribusiness Revitalization Project (STAR-P) has successfully concluded a three-day learning and exchange visit to Sierra Leoneโs Agriculture Value Chain Development Project (AVDP), reinforcing regional cooperation among International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-supported initiatives.
The delegation, led by STAR-P Project Coordinator Stephen Marvie Jr., undertook the mission from March 23โ25, 2026, to gain practical insights to strengthen Liberiaโs agricultural transformation efforts, particularly in oil palm development and Inland Valley Swamp (IVS) cultivation.
During the visit, the delegation engaged directly with farming communities and key stakeholders, observing firsthand how targeted investments, improved agricultural practices, and community-based approaches are enhancing productivity and transforming rural livelihoods.
As part of the mission, the team also visited Njala University, where discussions centered on strengthening research collaboration, especially in oil palm seedling development and nursery managementโcritical components for building resilient and competitive agricultural value chains in Liberia.
The engagement highlights the growing importance of SouthโSouth Cooperation, an approach that enables countries with similar development realities to share practical knowledge, innovations, and experiences to accelerate progress. Through this exchange, Liberia is leveraging proven solutions from Sierra Leone to strengthen its agricultural systems and scale up impact.
The visit further underscored the value of regional partnerships, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration and knowledge sharing. Plans are underway for a reciprocal learning visit to Liberia.
These efforts directly support the Governmentโs โLiberians Feed Yourselves Agenda,โ which prioritizes increased domestic food production, reduced import dependency, and the creation of indigenous wealth by empowering Liberian farmers, strengthening local agribusinesses, and retaining value within the national economy.
Under the leadership of Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, the Ministry of Agriculture continues to advance a bold vision for a modern, productive, and inclusive agricultural sector. Through STAR-P and other flagship initiatives, Liberia is empowering smallholder farmers, strengthening agribusiness, and creating sustainable economic opportunities across the country.
