Monrovia, November 26, 2025 – The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has marked a major milestone in its drive toward national food security with the harvest of its first post-war swamp rice project near the Edward Binyah Kesselly (EBK) Barracks in Lower Margibi County.
The breakthrough follows the activation of the AFL Agriculture Company (Agri Coy) on February 6, 2025, under the leadership of Chief of Staff Major General Davidson Fayiah Forleh. Upon activation, Maj. Gen. Forleh mandated the immediate cultivation of swamp rice, with a harvest expected before the end of 2025.
Responding swiftly, Agri Coy Commander Captain Emmanuel Wisseh identified a substantial swamp field near the EBK Barracks, giving birth to the AFL Swamp Rice Pilot Project—an initiative that positions the AFL not only as a professional military force but also as a contributor to national development.
“Sir, I promised that before this year ends, I will surprise you with my first harvest, and this is an example of my surprise,” Capt. Wisseh told Maj. Gen. Forleh during the harvest ceremony. He explained that the rice variety used matures in three months, allowing up to four harvest cycles annually.
Capt. Wisseh praised his team for overcoming numerous challenges, especially the lack of modern agricultural machinery, and extended gratitude to the Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP) for its technical and operational support. Wisseh, who holds a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Liberia, has served in the AFL since 2007.
CHAP Director Bishop Robert Bimba commended the Ministry of Defense and the AFL leadership for their collaboration, expressing the organization’s commitment to expanding agricultural productivity alongside the military. He noted that the success of the pilot project has enhanced CHAP’s regional credibility, including securing a new partnership with the Namibian Army.
“The message is clear that the AFL is the best force in the region, and they are ready to feed themselves and other militaries,” Bishop Bimba said.
Maj. Gen. Forleh reaffirmed that the initiative aligns with President Joseph N. Boakai’s agricultural priorities under the “ARREST Agenda.” He announced plans to expand Agri Coy from a company-size unit to a battalion and replicate agricultural projects across all AFL barracks.
The Chief of Staff lauded the Agri Coy team and disclosed that the harvested rice will support upcoming AFL training programs, including new recruit training.
He appealed to the government and partners for machinery and logistical support to enhance productivity.
Representatives of the ECOWAS Advisory Training Team and the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Security Cooperation, who attended the event, praised the AFL for the initiative, noting its potential to significantly strengthen Liberia’s food security efforts.
