By CARI Staff Writer 

SUAKOKO, LIBERIA – The use of uncertified seeds has posed several risks to Liberian farmers, leading to the cultivation of pests and diseases that devastate entire crops. Poor-quality seeds have resulted in lower yields and inferior crop quality, negatively impacting farmers' income and food security.

Over time, planting uncertified seeds has introduced invasive species, harming local ecosystems. This has led to economic losses due to crop failure and the need for additional inputs to manage pests and diseases. To mitigate these risks, Liberian farmers must use certified seeds from reliable sources, ensuring access to high-quality, disease-free planting materials that promote better yields and sustainable farming practices.

In response to these challenges, the Government of Liberia, in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), has launched the Seeds4Liberia Project. The project has cultivated 13.01 hectares at the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) to multiply cassava breeder seeds for farmers. These seeds will serve as a bank to provide certified seeds to local farmers, establishing a resilient seed system for rice, cassava, soybeans, coffee, and fish.

During a tour of the cassava fields on February 15, 2025, the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, disclosed plans to industrialize starch production at the Weala cassava processing hub. "As we speak, work is ongoing in Weala, Margibi County. Equipment has been shipped and is on the way, and land preparation is ongoing for the construction of the plant. Hopefully, the equipment will be installed by June this year," Minister Nuetah assured farmers.

Addressing the challenge of raw material supplies, Minister Nuetah encouraged Liberian farmers to work hard in cultivating more land to increase cassava production at an industrial level. "The challenge is for Liberians to supply the raw materials, especially cassava, to meet production demand," he noted.

The Minister assured smallholder farmers, agribusinesses, and projects that starting next year, the Ministry will not sign any Memorandums of Understanding to import seeds from neighboring countries. "I am going to relax this year. However, starting next year, the Ministry of Agriculture will not sign any MOUs to import seeds, except for those grown in Liberia. That’s the only way we will sign them."

This initiative aims to bolster food security and promote economic diversification in Liberia by focusing on cassava, a staple crop in the region. The IITA and CARI are also working to improve local varieties. Seven notable varieties were transported to Liberia last July, among the 54 improved cassava varieties released in Nigeria.

The seven cassava varieties planted in trial plots at CARI include the Game Changer, which matures in 10-12 months and offers a massive yield at harvest. It is known for its attractive leaves, finely shaped roots, and reduced water content. The TME-693, referred to as Poundable, matures between 10-12 months and is characterized by its mealy roots, making it comparable to yam. It is favored for its versatility in food processing. The 0057 is also high-yielding for garri production, while the No Hunger (Yellow Root) is fortified with vitamin A and has early branching characteristics. The 289 is high-yielding and is good for garri and fufu production. The TMS-693 is mealy and poundable and good for chips and other forms of consumption.

Additionally, the Baba 70, a high-yielding variety with a maturity period of 9-12 months, is early bulking, resistant to Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), and good for weed management. This variety is ideal for garri and fufu production. High-yielding and drought-resistant varieties like the Game Changer are believed to eradicate hunger and poverty due to their exceptional yield and food quality. This variety has high starch content and is good for starch production. The Dixon variety is also drought tolerant.