By Ben TC Brooks
Southeast, Liberia – [June 12, 2025] – Moses Gbanyan, Deputy Minister for Research and Extension at the Ministry of Agriculture, has wrapped up a monitoring tour in region 5 of Southeast Liberia.
The purpose of the visit was to enhance agricultural productivity and address challenges farmers are encountering in the region’s agricultural sector.
Region 5 includes counties of River Gee, Maryland, and Grand Kru, with coordination led by Jaye Doe Wleh.
Minister Gbanyan said the primary goal of his visit were to assess ongoing agricultural programs and gather direct input from local farmers and agricultural stakeholders.
During his time in the region, Deputy Minister Gbanyan interacted with local farmers, cooperatives, and regional agricultural stakeholders to discuss their obstacles, achievements, and aspirations.
The conversations focused on various pressing issues such as access to quality seeds, the effects of climate change, irrigation management, pest and disease management, and the implementation of modern farming practices.
“The visit has reaffirmed our commitment to supporting agriculture in region 5. I am truly inspired by the resilience and ingenuity of the farmers here. It’s crucial for us to engage with you to grasp your needs and work together towards sustainable agricultural development,” remarked Deputy Minister Gbanyan.
Throughout his visit, he explored several farming projects, examining both large-scale and smallholder operations that feature a variety of crops, including rice, cocoa, and vegetables.
Farmers in River Gee County expressed appreciation for the national government’s extension services while also highlighting areas needing improvement. They emphasized the necessity of having access to seeds and adequate farming equipment to improve their food production capacity.
In response to feedback, Deputy Minister for Research and Extension committed to fostering greater collaboration among farmers to better address local needs.
“We intend to enhance all of our programs with your help and guarantee that our extension officers are both accessible and attentive.” He said.
As he wrapped up his visit, the Deputy Minister expressed his appreciation to the farmers and stakeholders in the area for their kind hospitality and invaluable contributions.
For their part, CAC Jasper Sherrif Tweh of River Gee, Peter Clarke of Maryland, and Alfred Ogunti of Grand Kru counties have expressed their support for the Deputy Minister’s visit, calling for more assistance to help empower local farmers in their respective counties.
However, Region 5 Agriculture Coordinator, Jaye Doe Wleh, has also thanked the Deputy Minister for the visit in his region and promised more collaboration with county coordinators and local farmers within his region.
He assured that challenges raised by local farmers and cooperatives would be follow-up.
The region five Coordinator also praised the turnout and the hospitality extended during the Deputy Minister’s monitoring visit to the region.
As a result of this recent visit, the Ministry of Agriculture is anticipated to offer continued support and resources based on the insights collected, ensuring that the issues of Region 5 are integrated into national agricultural policies and programs.
