0
A modern livestock research and training facility in Sanniquellie City, Nimba County, is transforming pig farming in Liberia by providing farmers, students, and researchers with access to practical training, modern livestock technologies, and hands-on agricultural education. It was constructed under the Ministry of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Empowerment Programme (RETRAP), with support from the Government of Liberia and the World Bank, and was officially inaugurated in April 25, 2025. The model piggery farm serves as a centre for innovation and farmer education as it also forms part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise agriculture, improve productivity, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in rural communities.
The farm is currently managed by Head of the Nimba Livestock Farmers Cooperative, and currently raises pigs for research, demonstration, and practical training purposes. It has helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical experience by exposing students and farmers to modern livestock production techniques.
Animal Science students from Nimba University regularly visit the facility for field-based learning and research, while local farmers receive training in improved pig production, disease prevention, feeding systems, breeding, sanitation, and animal management. For many farmers, it is their first opportunity to access structured and practical livestock education. Structures on the farm includes modern pig pens, laboratories, research rooms, a conference hall, administrative offices, and demonstration areas, creating a suitable environment for research, training, and knowledge sharing.
Prior to the establishment of the centre, many livestock farmers in Nimba County relied on traditional production methods with limited access to veterinary services and modern farming techniques. The new facility is helping to address these challenges by equipping farmers with practical skills that improve productivity and reduce livestock losses. Farmers who have participated in the training programmes report adopting better practices in animal hygiene, disease control, and feeding management. Community members and agricultural stakeholders have also praised the initiative for its potential to boost pig production, strengthen food security, and create employment opportunities for young people.
Beyond livestock production, the project is contributing to human capacity development by preparing a new generation of agricultural professionals with the practical knowledge and technical skills needed to support Liberia’s growing agricultural sector as it is also increasingly being recognised as a successful example of community-based agricultural transformation, combining research, education, and farmer support to promote sustainable livestock production in Liberia.
June 15, 2026/ Liberia- Nimba County/
https://laejnet.org/
