By Elbie Sebleh
MONROVIA: In a groundbreaking revelation, the Liberia Agriculture Census has brought to light the intricate web of agricultural dynamics shaping the nation’s farming sector.
Addressing the Ministry of Information Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) regular press conference, Thursday September 19,2024, Director of LIGIS, Richard Ngafuan, revealed preliminary insights of the just ended agricultural census.
Director Ngafuan explained that covering a total of 359,056 agricultural households in Liberia from January to March 2024, the census stands as a pivotal milestone in understanding and redefining Liberia’s agricultural landscape.
Key findings from the census illuminate the core fabric of Liberia’s agricultural community. With 338,630 agricultural households prominently distributed across Nimba, Bong, and Lofa counties, the data underscores the male predominance in farming activities, with 64.5% of households being male-headed.
He explained that the agricultural populace surpasses 1 million, comprising 499,732 farmers, showcasing an average of two farmers per household and a typical household size of four.
According to him, Liberia’s staple, rice emerged as the cornerstone of Liberian agriculture, cultivated by 56.3% of households, closely followed by cassava at 45.9%.
However, poultry and livestock rearing present fewer common practices, with only 8.1% of households engaged in poultry raising and 6.0% in livestock rearing.
The census also sheds light on labor dynamics, revealing that 72.9% of agricultural households employ external labor, predominantly male workers. Notably, instances of child labor in crop production are more pronounced in Grand Kru and Lofa counties.
Furthermore, the census uncovers the prevailing agricultural practices, indicating limited fertilizer usage at 11.3% of households, with a notable concentration in Montserrado County.
The reliance on manual tools remains prominent, with 87.2% of households utilizing hand hoes and 94.1% employing cutlasses, while the adoption of machine-powered equipment remains minimal.
The Liberia Agriculture Census not only provides a snapshot of the current agricultural landscape but also serves as a compass for policymakers, stakeholders, and development partners to chart a course towards sustainable agricultural development, enhanced productivity, and inclusive growth in Liberia’s farming communities.
