Published: June 17, 2025
Monrovia, Liberia – A vibrant display of fresh produce and entrepreneurial energy unfolded at Invincible Park on Friday, as more than 30 local farmers and vendors sold out their goods at the Grow-2 Farmers’ Market in Monrovia.
The event, part of the Grow-2 Project implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and funded by the Embassy of Sweden, drew a crowd of over 200 enthusiastic buyers. Shoppers were treated to an abundant selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and natural juices, all sourced from Liberian farms.
“This market wasn’t just about food. It was about strengthening value chains, supporting rural livelihoods, and empowering smallholder farmers, especially women,” said Dr. Charles Sackey, UNIDO’s Grow-2 Project lead.
The market was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture’s marketing division, the Liberia Vegetable Sellers Association (LVSA), and Women in Agriculture for Sustainable Development (WASUDEV). The initiative aimed to directly link farmers to consumers, create market visibility, and boost incomes, particularly for women-led agribusinesses.
One of those benefiting was Ma Massa, a farmer and member of WASUDEV. Smiling after a successful day of sales, she said, “I tell God thank you. I tell the organizers thank you. I sold out my market.”
The Grow-2 Project is anchored in the Market Systems Development (MSD) approach, which emphasizes market-based solutions to strengthen agricultural linkages. Organizers say this model helps reduce transaction costs and establish sustainable, direct-to-consumer sales channels.
“This is a great example of inclusive economic development that responds to both producer and consumer needs,” said Carl-Henrik Olaison Jacobsson, program officer at the Swedish Embassy overseeing Grow-2. “We’re proud to support this effort through our development cooperation in Liberia.”
The farmer’s market also attracted high-profile visitors, including Liberia’s former Ambassador to the United States, Jeremiah Sulunteh.
“It was good, and I loved the shopping experience at the farmer’s market,” Sulunteh said. “I also got the opportunity to buy fresh farm produce.”
Organizers say the success of Friday’s market signals a growing demand for locally produced food and highlights the potential for agriculture to drive inclusive, market-led growth in Liberia.
Grow-2, now in its implementation phase, plans to host more farmers’ markets and strengthen agricultural cooperatives as part of its wider development strategy.
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