The launch ceremony for the agriculture component of the REALISE Project was held in Vehyipa, a village on the outskirts of Sanniquellie in Nimba County, located in northern Liberia. Known for its agricultural productivity and active involvement in farming, Vehyipa provided a fitting backdrop for the event. The ceremony was symbolic for eight counties across Liberia that are currently benefiting from the Community Livelihood and Agriculture Component (CLAS) of the REALISE Project.
The program was attended by a range of government officials, including the chief launcher Julius Sele, the Executive Director of LACE; Youth and Sports Minister Cllr. Cole Bangalu; Nimba County Superintendent Kou Gono; and other distinguished guests.
In his remarks, Chief Launcher Julius Sele emphasized the importance of making the most of the opportunities provided by the REALISE Project. “Take full advantage of the opportunities the government is offering through the REALISE Project and focus on growing more local food to reduce the significant burden of purchasing imported rice,” he urged the residents.
Sele further highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency in food production. “When we grow our own food, we gain control over the choices we make regarding what we consume in our homes,” he explained.
He also urged the farmers to remain vigilant regarding climate change and its adverse effects on livelihoods worldwide. “As you engage in farming, use the climate-smart agricultural techniques you have learned through the project. Be mindful not to indiscriminately cut down trees, and instead, make better use of lowland areas to enhance your yields,” Mr. Sele advised.
Representatives from the World Bank and the French Development Agency, two major financiers of the project, were present at the event. They attended to witness firsthand the impact of their funding and to participate in the launch. In their separate remarks, the partners expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring sustainability and self-sufficiency among the beneficiaries.
The REALISE Project is funded by the World Bank, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), the French Development Agency (AFD), and the Government of Liberia.
