By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP) Agro Inc. has become one of the first eight Liberian-owned companies to receive certification from the newly established Seed Development and Certification Agency (SDCA), a move expected to strengthen local seed production and advance Liberia’s quest for agricultural self-sufficiency.
Presented on July 10, 2026, at the SDCA headquarters by Deputy Director General for Variety Registration and Release, Roseline D. Snoh, on behalf of the agency’s Director General, Jobson Momo.
CHAP Agro Chief Executive Officer, Bishop Robert S.M. Bimba, received the certificate on behalf of the company.
The recognition follows years of advocacy and national consultations that led to the establishment of Liberia’s first agency dedicated to seed development, certification, and quality assurance.
Following the certification, CHAP Agro described the achievement as a landmark moment for Liberia’s agricultural sector, saying it will help reduce the country’s dependence on imported seeds and planting materials while promoting the production and distribution of certified locally produced seeds.
The company commended the Government of Liberia, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture and Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, for establishing the Seed Development and Certification Agency.
It said the agency would strengthen quality seed products, the production of high-quality seed access to certified planting materials, and create new business opportunities for Liberian-owned seed enterprises.
According to CHAP Agro, the certification marks the beginning of a new era in which certified Liberian-grown seeds and cassava cuttings can increasingly replace imported planting materials, keeping investment within the country, boosting food production, and improving the livelihoods of rural farming communities.
The company also expressed appreciation to the European Union (EU) for its support in establishing and strengthening the Seed Development and Certification Agency.
CHAP Agro was among seven other Liberian seed enterprises, including Arjah Farm, John Salma, AAIC, and several additional local agricultural businesses.
The company urged farmers, cooperatives, development partners, and other stakeholders to procure certified seeds and cassava cuttings from licensed Liberian seed companies as part of efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and strengthen national food security.
CHAP Agro further congratulated the Seed Development and Certification Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Government of Liberia, fellow certified seed companies, and farmers across the country, describing the certification exercise as a historic achievement that lays the foundation for a stronger, more resilient, and self-reliant agricultural sector.
