In a concerted effort to improve food security and promote healthy dietary habits, an inspiring initiative was recently held in Suakoko, Bong County, Liberia. Over 75 smallholder farmers gathered for a transformative workshop led by US Exchange Alumni Hawa Varney, Emmanuel Williams, and Dr. Joseph Saysay, in collaboration with the Women in Agriculture for Sustainable Development (WASD), with generous support from the U.S. Department of State through the Alumni Exchange Innovation Fund (AEIF).

The workshop was part of a larger project focused on advancing climate-smart agriculture for a sustainable and nutritious food system for Liberians. The central aim of the project is to enhance the knowledge of local farmers, enabling them to make informed decisions about the food they produce and consume. This effort encourages the adoption of locally grown foods, fostering gradual, sustained behavior change that leads to balanced, health-promoting diets for farmers and their families.

The initiative specifically targets smallholder farmers, many of whom are women, empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices that can improve both food production and nutrition. Through the training, participants learned practical methods for increasing food security, improving soil health, and enhancing the overall sustainability of their farming practices. They also explored ways to incorporate nutritious, locally grown foods into their diets, ultimately benefiting both their agricultural livelihoods and their families’ well-being.

The opening ceremony of the workshop was a momentous occasion, graced by distinguished guests, including staff from the U.S. Embassy in Liberia. The event was led by Mr. Etheredge S. Tod, Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Embassy, who highlighted the importance of such initiatives for community development and sustainable agriculture. Mr. Robert B. Taylor, Bong County Agriculture Coordinator from the Ministry of Agriculture, also attended, underscoring the significance of collaboration between local communities, the government, and international partners to achieve lasting change. Other key figures at the ceremony included Dr. Sonnie Rose Kesselly, Associate Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry at the University of Liberia, as well as community leaders who joined in supporting the workshop’s goals.

This workshop represents a significant step forward in creating a sustainable and resilient agricultural system in Liberia, one that emphasizes the importance of nutritious food and climate-smart practices. The support of the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia, has been invaluable in making this training a reality, and their commitment to fostering change in rural communities is deeply appreciated.

As the workshop concluded, participants left with newfound knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to make lasting improvements in their farming practices and dietary choices. The goal of creating a more sustainable and nutritious food system for Liberia is well underway, and this workshop is just one of many steps toward achieving it.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Embassy, the Alumni Exchange Innovation Fund, and all the partners who have made this initiative possible. With their continued support, we look forward to empowering more women and farmers across Liberia, creating a future where sustainable agriculture and healthy diets go hand in hand.