Liberian-US Citizen Launches Large-Scale Farming Project in Grand Kru County

By Emmanuel Koffa

Grand Kru County – A Liberian citizen based in the United States, Joseph Nimely Toe, has launched an ambitious agricultural initiative covering approximately 150 acres of land in his hometown of Grandcess, Grand Kru County. The project aims to boost local food production, promote self-reliance, and empower the county’s youth through employment.

The initiative, named SAMJEBO Farm, was established with the approval of tribal authorities who granted Mr. Toe the right to cultivate traditional land for agricultural purposes. Located between Wedabo Beloken and Grandcess, the farm is jointly owned by Mr. Toe and his wife.

Toe, who spent his early years in Grandcess, said his deep-rooted connection to his homeland inspired him to return from the U.S. in 2023 with a vision to transform agriculture in the region.

“Agriculture is the backbone of any thriving community, and it is essential for our people to harness the land’s potential,” Toe said in a recent interview. “This farm is not just about growing crops; it’s about giving our young people an opportunity to become self-reliant and economically productive.”

SAMJEBO Farm currently focuses on cultivating cassava and plantains, two staple crops in southeastern Liberia. Plans are underway to expand into vegetable and grain production, with the broader goal of improving food security and diversifying local diets.

Toe said his efforts are aimed particularly at young people, many of whom he noted are stuck in illegal mining camps or remain unemployed. Through the farm, he hopes to offer practical training and employment opportunities.

“Many young Liberians are unaware of the vast opportunities in agriculture,” he explained. “Through this project, I want to show them that farming can be a viable and rewarding career path.”

In addition to crop cultivation, Toe intends to introduce modern and sustainable farming techniques such as crop rotation and agroforestry. These methods, he said, will improve soil fertility and ensure long-term productivity.

Community engagement has been central to the project. Toe has been working closely with local leaders and farmers to build support and foster a shared vision for agricultural transformation in Grand Kru.

“This is not just about farming, it’s about building a future together,” he said. “When we work collectively, sharing knowledge and resources, we can create lasting change.”

The project has already begun to generate excitement among residents. During a recent broadcast on Ahteenah Radio in Barclayville, aired on July 9, 2025, several community members praised Toe’s initiative and its potential to improve food production, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen community cohesion.

Local citizens expressed hope that the effort would inspire other Liberians, both at home and abroad, to invest in agriculture as a tool for national development.

Toe emphasized that the project is fully self-financed by him and his wife but remains open to external support. “We welcome assistance from the government, private individuals, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations,” he said. “Additional support will help expand our operations and increase the impact, particularly in creating jobs and strengthening food security.”