The Bartuogbeh Farmer Association in Tuobo, Gbarweleken District, River Gee County, have harvested seven hectares of lowland rice.
The exercise, marked a step toward food security, and improved livelihood in the county.
The lowland rice project was cultivated with support from the Smallholder Agriculture Transformation, and Agribusiness Revitalization Project (STAR-P) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture.
According to farmers on the field, 1.8 metric tons of rice have already been harvested in the first phase of the project, with more expected as harvesting continues in the coming days.
The county agriculture coordinator, Jasper Sheriff Tweh, disclosed the development during a field monitoring visit to the farm site in Tuobo on Saturday, October 3.
Tweh praised members of the Bartuogbeh Farmer Association for their commitment, and hard work.
He described their effort as a clear example of how organized farmer groups can increased food production.
He assured the farmers of the county’s agriculture team willingness provide technical support through the District Agriculture Officers (DAOs) to ensure proper harvesting, post-harvest handling, and preparation for the next farming season.
He also lauded the STAR-P for its continued investment in the agriculture sector, particularly in supporting smallholder farmers in River Gee with inputs, technical knowledge, and improved lowland farming methods.
Tweh used the occasion to call on young Liberians to see agriculture as a viable business, and a pathway to self-employment, rather than waiting for white-collar jobs.
The Bartuogbeh harvest comes at a time when the government, and partners have pushed to increase local rice production under the National Agriculture Development Plan.
