By Moses M. Tokpah/BONG
A former candidate for the representative seat of District 1 (Todee District) in Montserrado County, Momo Dannah, in a passionate call to action, is encouraging the youths of Liberia to actively engage in agricultural activities.
Following his fourth-place finish in the 2023 presidential and legislative elections, Dannah has shifted his focus toward farming, cultivating sixty acres of land with peanuts and investing L$700,000 in purchasing peanuts.
Dannah’s agricultural venture has not only provided employment to over fifty individuals (28 men and 30 women), but has also created a consistent income stream for his workers, with salaries starting at L$5,000 weekly.
“As young people, we should make sure we get back to the soil; the soil will benefit us,” he stressed during a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of agricultural engagement for economic resilience.
Reflecting on his political journey, Dannah expressed that despite considerable financial investments in his campaign, it was agriculture that allowed him to generate over 3 million Liberian dollars. He advised aspiring agriculturists to approach farming gradually and to immerse themselves in the process.
While acknowledging the hardships faced by many Liberians, Dannah firmly believes in the potential of agriculture to providing solutions. “If the people of Liberia, especially the young people, invest in the soil, they will not experience any hardship,” he stated.
Dannah cautioned against immediate investments in less accessible areas such as rubber farming due to high costs and long waiting periods for returns. Instead, he recommended simple crop cultivation like peanuts or cassava, encouraging youths to start with at least two acres of land. He highlighted the importance of research in ensuring the success of agricultural projects.
Furthermore, Dannah called for increased governmental support to divert young people attention from solely pursuing government jobs, adding that by many young Liberians turning to farming, it will offer them financial independence.
“If the government can provide support to farmers, I wouldn’t need to chase after a government job,” he asserted.
However, Dannah expressed frustration over the selective support from agricultural authorities.
He noted that representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture have visited farms including his, recognizing their successes, yet have not provided the necessary assistance.
“They haven’t paid attention to us because we are not close to leadership,” he lamented, stressing the need for a more inclusive approach to agricultural development.
As Liberia’s youths contemplate their future paths, Momo Dannah’s message rings clear that prioritizing agriculture could be the key to economic empowerment and national growth.
Dannah Urges Liberian Youth To Prioritize Agriculture
