Agriculture Minister Alexander Nuteh has announced plans to dismiss District Agriculture Officers (DAOs) who were appointed based on political recommendations rather than merit.
Speaking at the ongoing 2025 National Agriculture Fair in Ganta, Nimba County, Minister Nuteh criticized the recruitment process that placed several DAOs on the ministry’s payroll without proper vetting. He said many of the politically recommended officers lack the qualifications required for the job and have shown little commitment due to their political ties.
He disclosed that he had originally proposed a monthly salary of US$600 for DAOs to the Ministry of Finance, but the amount was reduced to US$450 following negotiations between the two ministries.
Meanwhile, Zorzor District Agriculture Officer Victor V. Gahndolo highlighted poor road conditions as a major challenge faced by farmers in Lofa County. He appealed to the central government for urgent intervention to ensure farmers can transport their produce more easily.
