By: Gabriel M.C Parker
BOMI COUNTY – A group of 30 subsistence farmers in rural Bomi County, operating under the name Bomujeh—a Gola word meaning “Don’t Sit”—has made an urgent appeal to the Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Agriculture, for immediate assistance.
The farmers, who are engaged in rice cultivation, aim to boost local food production and reduce Liberia’s reliance on imported rice.
In an exclusive interview with journalists, the group’s chairperson, Madam Hawa Quaye, revealed that they are currently cultivating four hectares of farmland without any form of external support.
“Our goal is to make the community and its surrounding areas self-sufficient in rice production,” Madam Quaye said. “But despite our hard work, the lack of proper farming tools is making the job extremely difficult—especially now, during the rainy season.”
She called on the Ministry of Agriculture to provide essential tools and equipment, emphasizing that such support is critical for improving productivity.
In addition to tools, the group is seeking capacity-building opportunities to enhance their agricultural knowledge and skills. Mr. Bimba Massaquio, Co-chair of Bomujeh, stressed the need for formal training in modern farming techniques.
“Since Bomujeh was formed, none of our members has received professional agricultural training,” he said. “With the right knowledge and resources, we could significantly increase our yields and adopt more sustainable farming practices.”
The farmers expressed concern that while agriculture is a cornerstone of Liberia’s development agenda, grassroots farmers in remote communities are often neglected in terms of support and investment.
They are therefore calling on the Ministry of Agriculture, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international development partners to prioritize local farming groups working to feed their own communities.
According to the group, empowering rural farmers with tools and training will not only strengthen national food security but also create jobs and help reduce poverty in underserved areas.
The Bomujeh farmers reaffirmed their commitment to transforming their community through agriculture but insisted that sustained and meaningful support from stakeholders is urgently needed.
