Liberia: FLY to Establish Youth Farms Across Liberia

The Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) is working with the government of Liberia and its Chinese counterpart for the establishment of National Youth Farms across the country an initiative that the federation says is aimed at tackling the chronic food insecurity in the country.

A startup to achieve this dream is the hosting of the Liberia China Corporation: Youth Agricultural Development Seminar, a collaborative effort that is being led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and FLY, with technical and financial assistance from the government of the People’s Republic of China. The seminar is a proponent of the Liberia China Corporation.

FLY secretariat said in a statement on May 25 that the initiative aims to empower young farmers from all 15 counties in Liberia with the knowledge and skills required for industrial farming, while simultaneously addressing food insecurity and youth unemployment.

According to the statement, signed by Ernest Duku Jallah, Chairperson of the Liberia China Corporation Coordinating Committee, the seminar will serve as a gathering point for 100 young farmers, stakeholders, and development partners, who will join forces to assess the current state of agriculture and youth development in Liberia.

FLY noted that the feasibility of establishing national youth farms across the country will be a key focus of the seminar, with the aim of creating sustainable solutions to the challenges that the country faces in the agricultural sector.

“This groundbreaking event is set to pave the way for the establishment of national youth farms, to be managed by the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY),” the statement said.

FLY president, Ms. Banica Elliott, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey alongside the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Embassy of the People's Republic of China.”

She added, “the Liberia China Corporation: Youth Agricultural Development Seminar represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to combat food insecurity and create opportunities for young farmers in Liberia.”

Liberia faces numerous challenges in the agricultural sector, including limited access to modern farming techniques, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of investment in youth development.

The seminar aims to equip young farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge in industrial farming, with the goal of enhancing productivity, improving food production, and stimulating economic growth.

The Embassy of the People's Republic of China, which FLY described as a steadfast partner in Liberia’s development, has been instrumental in supporting various initiatives across the country. Through their technical expertise and provision of machinery, China is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering the next generation of farmers.

“We believe in the potential of Liberia’s youth and the transformative power of agriculture,” said Mr. Xu Kun, Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Liberia. “This partnership signifies the strong bond between Liberia and China. By combining our strengths and resources, we can create a prosperous future for Liberia, addressing food insecurity and tackling the pressing issue of youth unemployment.”

The Speaker of the House of Representatives is expected to make remarks on behalf of the government. The event will also be attended by Sen. Darius Dillion, Chairperson on the Senate Committee for Youth and Sports, Hon. Solomon Geroge, Chairperson on the House Committee for Youth and Sports, Deputy Minister of for Youth at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Deputy Minister for Research and Extension at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Madam Emma Glasco, Executive Director of NAFAA and Mr. Bobby Whitfield, Chairperson of the National WASH Commission. Other institutions including FAO, LACRA, CARI and WFP will be represented at the program.

FLY, as a key partner, will provide the necessary human resources and land to support the youth farms, while the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China will contribute technical capacity and machinery.

This strategic collaboration between Liberia and China reflects a shared commitment to sustainable agriculture and the empowerment of young people, FLY said in its statement

The Liberia China Corporation: Youth Agricultural Development Seminar represents a significant step towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2: Zero Hunger and Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By empowering young farmers, this initiative will contribute to poverty reduction, create employment opportunities, and build a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.

The seminar is scheduled to take place on May 29-30 at the Golden Gate Hotel. This event will provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the partnership and its potential impact on Liberia's agricultural sector.