[Bong County, Liberia, October 5, 2024]– The farming community of Gbelekpallah is celebrating an extraordinary milestone: a bumper rice harvest that has transformed the lives of local farmers and their families. This achievement is a direct result of the Ministry of Agriculture’s Building Climate Resilience Project (BCRP), supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

In recent years, the farmers of Gbelekpallah faced numerous challenges, from poor yields to unpredictable weather patterns. However, with the intervention of the BCRP, things have changed dramatically. The project has provided farmers with crucial support, including high-quality rice seeds, fertilizers, modern farming tools like power tillers, and hands-on training in advanced agricultural techniques.

These resources have enabled farmers to significantly expand their cultivated land, increasing it from just three hectares to a remarkable 17.5 hectares. The expected harvest, between 25 and 40 metric tons of rice, is more than just a victory for these farmers; it’s a boost to the entire community.

A New Era for Food Security

The bumper harvest represents a significant step towards ensuring food security for Gbelekpallah families. Children who once faced hunger are now enjoying nutritious meals, and the local economy is already feeling the positive impact as farmers reinvest their earnings to improve their operations further.

"This is a real success story for Gbelekpallah," said Hon. Moses Gbanyan, Deputy Minister for Extension at the Ministry of Agriculture, who attended the celebration alongside Bong County Superintendent Madam Hawa Norris. "What we’re seeing here is the result of empowering farmers with the right resources and knowledge, and it aligns perfectly with the 'Liberians, Feed Yourselves' agenda under the National Agriculture Development Plan."

A Bright Future Ahead

Looking forward, Gbelekpallah farmers are more determined than ever to maintain their momentum. With renewed confidence, they plan to increase their production further, adopting sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term benefits.

This success story of Gbelekpallah stands as a powerful example of how strategic support, education, and agricultural innovation can bring about real, lasting change. It’s a hopeful reminder that Liberia’s agricultural sector can thrive with the right tools, making the dream of national food self-sufficiency a reality