ActionAid Liberia Donates Farming Tools To Farmers in Montserrado, Bong and Gbarpolu
By: Jeremiah Sackie Cooper Gmail:jeremiahcooper105@gmail.com
Liberia: In a bid to bolster agricultural productivity and uplift rural communities, ActionAid Liberia has donated farming tools to over 375 farmers across Montserrado, Bong, and Gbarpolu Counties.
The donation was made on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in Monrovia.
These tools have been made possible through support from two projects: The Strategic Partnership Agreement II and SPAC West Africa. The Strategic Partnership Agreement II aims to improve access to public services for marginalized individuals in Bong, Montserrado, and Gbarpolu Counties, particularly focusing on women and youth. On the other hand, SPAC West Africa seeks to empower smallholder farmers, especially women and youth, by enhancing their resilience through agroecology practices and ICT adoption.
The symbolic Agriculture tools handover included an array of essential tools: 41 wheelbarrows, 324 pairs of rain boots, 85 shovels, 82 rakes, 6 cartons of cutlasses, 96 individual cutlass pieces, 68 spraying cans, 4 cartons of sanitary pads, and 2 cartons of toothbrushes. This event marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to support smallholder farmers in Liberia.
According to Madam Elizabeth Johnston, Country Director of ActionAid Liberia, the gesture aims to equip local farmers with the necessary resources to enhance their agricultural practices and improve livelihoods.
“We recognize the vital role that agriculture plays in the lives of rural communities,” she added.
Director Johnson disclosed “By providing farmers with the tools they need, we empower them to increase their productivity, generate income, and ultimately improve their standard of living”.
Making a remark, Deputy Minister for Planning and Policy at the Ministry of Agriculture, David Akoi lauded ActionAid for the initiative describing it as timely.
He noted that the donation is in line with the government’s policy to improve the Liberian agricultural sector and make the country self-sufficient in food production.
Deputy Minister Akoi at the same time called on the beneficiaries to use the donated materials for the intended purpose, as it will go a long way in improving their lives and communities.
“This initiative is in line with the government ARREST agenda. We are happy that you are supporting this by helping our farmers. We call on the farmers here to use these materials for the intended purpose and wisely” he added.
For their part, the beneficiaries of the donation express profound gratitude for the support received.
“This donation comes as a lifeline for us. With these tools, we can cultivate our lands more efficiently and produce better yields, ensuring food for our families and surplus for sale.”Garmia Kangawlo, a farmer in Montserrado County said.
The impact of ActionAid Liberia’s intervention extends beyond immediate assistance. By equipping farmers with essential tools, the organization contributes to building resilient communities capable of withstanding economic challenges and environmental uncertainties. Moreover, the initiative aligns with broader objectives of promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing poverty in rural Liberia.
ActionAid Liberia’s donation of farming tools serves as a testament to the organization’s dedication to empowering marginalized communities and fostering inclusive growth.
As these tools find their way into the hands of farmers across Montserrado, Bong and Gbarpolu Counties, they represent not only instruments of cultivation but also symbols of hope for a brighter and more prosperous future for Liberia’s rural population.
