IPNEWS: ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) highlighted its support for sustainable agriculture at the 2024 National Agriculture Fair.
Held at the Booker Washington Institute (BWI) campus in Kakata, Margibi County, farmers supported through AML’s Biodiversity Conservation Program (BCP) displayed and sold various fresh produce, including plantains, cabbages, and local collar grains, etc showcasing the potential of local agriculture.
The fair, which President Joseph Boakai graced, provided a platform for AML-supported farmers to showcase the fruits of their labor and connect with potential buyers and stakeholders.
The participation of these farmers pint to AML’s efforts to enhance local food production and promote sustainability in mining-affected communities.
Through its Biodiversity and Conservation Program (BCP) initiative, AML partners with Agriculture Relief Services (ARS), a local community development group based in Sanniquellie City Nimba County, to implement sustainable agriculture programs in Nimba County.
These programs empower farmers in 12 mine-affected towns and villages, equipping them with the tools, technical knowledge and resources needed to adapt to the challenges of climate change and global warming.
Farmers regularly receive training in biodiversity conservation and sustainable farming techniques, which enables them to improve yields while protecting the environment.
The program also incorporates a village savings and loan scheme, that offers farmers with access to financial resources to expand their activities and improve their livelihoods.
The support is critical as Liberia faces the growing impacts of climate change, such as unpredictable weather patterns and soil degradation which seem to be negatively impacting substance farming practices that form a key component of the nation’s food chain.
By promoting sustainable agriculture, AML believes it not only enhances food security but also helps mitigate the effects of climate change in rural communities.
The participation of AML-supported farmers in the National Agriculture Fair is said to be reflected the company’s broader commitment to sustainability.
ArcelorMittal’s support for local farmers in Liberia is rooted in its broader philosophy of fostering sustainable development and economic empowerment in the communities where it operates. Recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in improving livelihoods, the company has partnered with local farmers, community organizations, and stakeholders to promote environmentally friendly farming practices and enhance food security.
This initiative is part of ArcelorMittal’s commitment to sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet. Through targeted training programs and resources, the company is helping farmers adopt modern agricultural techniques that prioritize long-term productivity. The focus is not just on boosting yields but also on creating resilient rural economies, reducing dependency on mining-related incomes, and fostering environmental stewardship.
Central to these efforts is the inclusion of marginalized groups such as women and youth, who are integral to the vibrancy of Liberia’s agricultural sector. By providing equitable access to opportunities, ArcelorMittal is enabling local farmers to innovate and thrive in an increasingly challenging economic landscape. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to building self-sustaining communities while supporting Liberia’s broader economic diversification efforts.
