By: Staff/LMDI
In the fertile lands near the Guinea border in Foya, Lofa County, Liberia, the Makona River Farm and Agriculture Services, a dynamic agribusiness small medium enterprise, is witnessing a transformative agricultural journey. Spearheading this change is CEO Emmanuel T. Jayjay, whose vision has been bolstered by the invaluable support from the Government of Liberia Smallholder Agriculture Transformation and Agribusiness Revitalization Project (STAR-P), a project implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and funded by the World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
“Thanks to STAR-P, we have cultivated 1000 hectares of farmland, embracing the Abu variety with a maturation period of 120 days and the NERICA-4 variety maturing in just 70 days. This support has empowered us to harness the potential of both upland and lowland farming,” says Jayjay, emphasizing STAR-P’s crucial role in their success.
“The infusion of over Two Hundred Fifty Thousand USD (250,000 USD) from STAR-P has acted as a catalyst, enabling us at Makona River Farm and Agriculture Services to fortify various aspects of our operations, ” Jayjay affirmed. “We have utilized the funds to enhance every facet of our operations, from procuring cutting-edge agricultural equipment and vehicle to constructing essential infrastructure, including irrigation facilities and warehouse, ensuring our operations are streamlined and efficient,” Jayjay elaborated.
However, the journey to excellence isn’t without challenges. Jayjay reveals, “We still need additional support to complete our warehouse, a production hub that will eliminate post-harvest losses. With STAR-P’s continued backing, we are confident we can overcome this hurdle.”
Saah Bundoo, the Farm Manager, echoes Jayjay’s optimism. “Our 700 hectares of upland rice are ripe for harvest. Anticipating a yield of 4,450 metric tons after milling, we’ve secured a buyer contract with Agriculture and Infrastructural Investment Company (AIIC), supported by STAR-P,” Bundoo states, underscoring the project’s role in facilitating essential market linkages.
Speaking on behalf of STAR-P, STAR-P Lofa County Focal Person D. Levi Kpenkpa emphasizes the collective effort. “Makona River Farm and Agriculture Services exemplifies the impact STAR-P strives for. By enhancing local capacities, we are not just cultivating crops; we are nurturing sustainable futures for communities,” Kpenkpa affirms, emphasizing STAR-P’s commitment to empowering agricultural ventures and fostering economic growth.
The partnership between STAR-P and Makona River Farm and Agriculture Services stands tall in the sector—a testament to the power of strategic interventions, dedicated individuals, and the promise of a thriving agricultural landscape
