Maryland Youth Association Calls for Greater Support for RiceProduction Initiative

By: Bryan Dioh

The Maryland Youth Association is appealing for increased support to boost
rice production in the county, stressing the urgent need for farming equipment
to expand operations and contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s food security.

Speaking to journalists, the association’s president, Melvin Weah,
reaffirmed the group’s commitment to complementing the Ministry of
Agriculture’s efforts in strengthening local food production. However, he
cautioned that without timely intervention and access to essential tools, their
ambitions could stall.

“We have a dream to help make Maryland County self-sufficient in food
production, particularly rice. But that dream is at risk without adequate
equipment to support our work,” Weah said.

According to him, the association has secured 15 acres of farmland, divided
into 28 plots designated for rice cultivation. Despite this progress, the lack
of machinery remains a major bottleneck in processing harvested rice.

“In just one week, we harvested at least 625 kilograms of rice, but we are
struggling to process it. We need a power tiller for swamp preparation, rain
boots, and a mini rice processing machine. Right now, we’re doing everything
manually, with our bare hands and feet,” he explained.

Weah further shared that the association’s broader goal is to support
vulnerable groups, including people living with disabilities and
underprivileged communities, by distributing rice free of charge.

“Our vision is not just about farming, it’s about giving back. We want to
provide rice to the less fortunate and institutions in need,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to the local office of the Ministry of
Agriculture for supplying the initial seed rice that kick-started the project.

Agriculture remains a key priority under the Government of Liberia’s
national development agenda, with a particular focus on food self-sufficiency.
As momentum builds for reforms and investment in the sector, many hope that
grassroots efforts like those of the Maryland Youth Association will receive
the necessary backing to flourish.