Published: October 23, 2025
RIVERCESS COUNTY, Liberia – More than 100 farmers from RiverCess and Grand Bassa Counties have completed a four-day Farmers Exchange Visit Program under the Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP) — an initiative designed to strengthen food security and improve rice production using the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method.
The exchange program, organized by CHAP with support from Concern Worldwide and Irish Aid, brought together smallholder farmers to share experiences, discuss farming challenges, and explore innovative practices that can boost productivity and sustainability.
Farmers Share Knowledge, Build Capacity Across Counties
During the interactive four-day exercise, RiverCess farmers toured farms in Grand Bassa, while Grand Bassa farmers visited sites in RiverCess. The exchanges allowed participants to observe firsthand how improved planting techniques are being applied and how they could replicate them in their own communities.
According to CHAP field supervisors, the exchange visits form an essential part of the ongoing SRI rice production initiative, which has been active in both counties for the past three years. The approach promotes peer-to-peer learning and hands-on training as practical tools for transforming smallholder farming.
“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 classroom-style training.”
Farmers Celebrate Improved Livelihoods and Dignity
Many participants expressed appreciation to Concern Worldwide, Irish Aid, and CHAP for their continuous support to Liberia’s agriculture sector. They described the project as life-changing — one that has not only improved rice yields but also strengthened families’ financial stability and self-worth.
“We are very happy to be part of this project,” said one participating farmer. “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.”
SRI Method Transforming Rice Farming in Liberia
The SRI method—which emphasizes planting fewer seedlings, careful water management, and better spacing—has proven highly effective in boosting rice productivity while preserving soil health. Farmers say it has transformed their outlook on agriculture, making it more efficient, climate-resilient, and environmentally friendly.
For many, the annual exchange visit has become more than just a training event—it symbolizes collaboration, innovation, and shared progress among Liberia’s rural farmers.
As the program concluded, participants pledged to transfer their newly acquired knowledge to other farmers in their communities, ensuring that the project’s impact extends far beyond the initial beneficiaries.
“This initiative is not just about growing rice,” one CHAP supervisor noted. “It’s about growing communities, confidence, and a sustainable future for Liberia’s farmers.”
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