The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Cooperative Development Agency (CDA), has officially certified 14 ‘high-performing’ agricultural cooperatives in six of the 15 counties.
The recognition of the counties, according to a release, was a landmark effort to strengthen rural economies and advance sustainable development.
The certification ceremony, held from June 11-13, 2025, in Gbarnga, Bong County, was a highlight of the Accelerated Community Development initiative, a comprehensive training and refresher program focused on building local capacity and enhancing governance in cooperative societies.
The certified cooperatives, drawn from Bong, Nimba, River Cess, Gbarpolu, Lofa, and Bomi counties, were recognized for their “excellence in transparency, accountability, and member-driven governance.”
This achievement positions the counties for expanded access to financial support, technical assistance, and wider market opportunities.
At the event, the head of UNDP Liberia Governance Pillar, Stanley Kamara, congratulated the cooperatives for their leadership in community development.
“This certificate is not just a piece of paper; it’s a testament to your hard work and readiness to operate at a higher level,” Kamara told the beneficiaries.
He reaffirmed UNDP’s ongoing commitment to rural transformation under the leadership of the agency-Liberia Resident Representative, Aliou Dia. He added: “No community will be left behind.”
CDA’s Registrar General, Madam Lwopu G. Kandakai, lauded UNDP’s enduring support to the country, saying: “Since my childhood, I’ve heard about UNDP’s support. Today, I am witnessing its real impact on our people.”
On that sentiment, CDA Director of Programs and Projects, Harris B. Winnie, underscored the importance of certification as a marker of cooperative legitimacy.
“This defines your role as a certified cooperative. We also commend the Joseph Nyuma Boakai-led administration, whose ARREST Agenda put agriculture at the center of the country’s development strategy,” Winnie noted.
Local cooperative leaders celebrated the milestone as a turning point in their economic growth.
William S. Larpeh of Dokodan, Nimba County, noted: “With this certification, we can now engage in meaningful business and product distribution across the country.”
From Bong County’s Donfah District #5, Cecelia Gaye, co-chair of Kukatonoon Cooperative Society, Ltd, called the initiative ‘a transformative.’ “We’ve received tremendous support from both the government and UNDP. This one motivates us to grow even more.”
Chairlady Esther K. Giddings of Kukatonoon Farmers’ Cooperative Society, Ltd underscored the importance of support for cassava production.
Ma-Kebbeh Bemah, Chaplain of the Kpayaquelleh United Rural Women, Inc. in Lofa County, extended heartfelt gratitude to Pres. Boakai and the UNDP.
Bemah also appealed for additional support.