
Buchanan – More than 100 local farmers from Rivercess and Grand Bassa Counties have benefited from a four-day Farmers Exchange Visit Program organized under the Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP). The initiative, implemented by CHAP with support from Concern Worldwide and Irish Aid, aims to strengthen food security and improve rice production in Liberia through the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method.
The four-day exchange visit brought together farmers from both counties to share knowledge, discuss farming challenges, and learn innovative techniques to enhance productivity. During the visits, farmers from Rivercess toured farms in Grand Bassa, while their Grand Bassa counterparts also visited agricultural sites in Rivercess. The interactive sessions provided opportunities for farmers to observe new practices, ask questions, and identify ways to apply lessons learned to their own farms.
According to CHAP Field Supervisors, the exchange visits are a key component of the ongoing SRI rice production initiative, which has been active in both counties for the past three years. The program emphasizes peer-to-peer learning and hands-on experience as a way to build capacity among smallholder farmers and promote sustainable farming techniques.
“The farmers exchange visits allow participants to share their success stories, challenges, and recommendations directly with one another,” said a CHAP field technician. “It’s about empowering farmers to learn from real examples in their communities rather than relying only on training sessions.”
Participants expressed deep gratitude to Concern Worldwide, Irish Aid, and CHAP for their continued support and commitment to improving local agriculture. Many farmers noted that the project has not only increased rice yields but has also improved their livelihoods and dignity within their communities.
“We are very happy to be part of this project,” one farmer said. “Since joining, we’ve been able to pay our children’s school fees, feed our families, fix our homes, and live better lives. This project has brought us pride and respect in our communities.”
The SRI method, which focuses on planting fewer seedlings while achieving higher yields, has proven highly effective in boosting rice production in Liberia. Farmers say the technique has transformed their approach to agriculture, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.
For many, the annual exchange visit has become a symbol of collaboration and progress among Liberia’s rural farmers. Participants concluded the event by pledging to pass on the knowledge gained to other farmers in their communities, ensuring that the impact of the project continues to grow.