SUAKOKO, Liberia - Aspiring to transform the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) into an institute of excellence, the newly inducted Director-General, Dr. Arthur Bob Karnuah, has pledged to rebrand the center into a fully functional agricultural research institute in Liberia. During his acceptance address on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at the CARI main office in Suakoko, Bong County, Dr. Karnuah outlined his vision for making the institution a hub of agricultural research and innovation.

Dr. Karnuah emphasized the need to eliminate politics from CARI to allow it to function as a scientific research center of excellence. He stressed that institutions like CARI are built on specific capacities, and leveraging these will contribute significantly to the growth and development of the institute.

The Director-General outlined the core values of his agenda, including scientific excellence, creativity, integrity, leadership, collaboration, accountability, transparency, diversity, inclusiveness, and public service.

With over 20 years of experience in agricultural research, livestock and poultry management, extension services, and animal science, Dr. Karnuah specializes in animal science (breeding and genetics), functional genomics, and molecular genetics (biotechnology) for agricultural and animal industry development.

He restated that during his administration, CARI will focus on applied, client-oriented, and adaptive research in agriculture and natural resources. The goal is to inform policymakers on options to increase agricultural productivity without harming the natural resource base and environment.

The institute aims to contribute to sustainable agricultural growth and create an effective agricultural research system. 

The Director General envisions building a team of researchers dedicated to promoting technologies that reduce risks, increase local production, and generate wealth.

Rallying support from CARI staff, Dr. Karnuah emphasized the importance of respect, integrity, and teamwork in fostering a cordial and productive working relationship. He assured staff that rewards and promotions will be based on merit and excellent performance.

Dr. Karnuah promised to maintain an open-door policy, focusing on processes rather than personalities. He stressed that he is not there to witch-hunt anyone but to ensure that everyone works diligently and responsibly.

Quoting President Joseph N. Boakai’s statement, “There will be no business as usual,” Dr. Karnuah emphasized the importance of defining reality, serving others, and expressing gratitude in leadership.

The newly inducted Director General acknowledged past issues of political interference in CARI's operations, which have hindered its progress. He emphasized that his leadership would steer clear of politics to focus on scientific research.

CARI has faced challenges such as a lack of support for research activities, salary harmonization protests, and insufficient supplies. The institution was particularly impacted by the salary harmonization policy of the previous administration.

Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah assured CARI staff that there will be no tolerance for political interference. He encouraged researchers to focus on their scientific work and promised government support for CARI's initiatives.

Dr. Inoussa Akintayo, AfricaRice country representative, pledged to provide mentorship and coaching for young scientists at CARI, reinforcing the collaborative efforts in agricultural research.

With a clear vision and strong commitment from its new Director-General is poised to become a leading agricultural research institute in Liberia. By fostering a culture of scientific excellence and collaboration, CARI aims to make significant contributions to the agricultural sector and improve the quality of life for Liberians.