Final Performance Evaluation of the Food and Enterprise Development (FED) Program in Liberia

The project launched in September 2011 and aims to increase food availability, utilization, and utilization by building an indigenous incentive structure to assist agricultural stakeholders in adopting commercial approaches. This incentive structure is built upon improved productivity and profitability, expanded and modernized input supply and extension services, commercial production, marketing, and processing, and workforce development. FED works with the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), civil society, and the private sector to provide communities access to agricultural inputs, extension services, nutrition messages, processing services, market information, transportation, credit, agro-business education, training, and business development services. The project focuses on six counties: Bong, Lofa, Nimba, Grand Bassa, Montserrado, and Margibi. These counties are situated along development corridors that promote intra- and intra-county commerce, improving food availability, and access for Liberians. FED's methodology is market-led and value-chain driven, with a focus on building local capacity, particularly among women and youth. The project is implemented by a consortium led by Development Alternatives, Inc., along with other organizations, including Winrock International, International Fertilizer Developmental Center (IFDC), Louisiana State University (LSU), and The Cadmus Group. The project's objectives include increasing productivity and profitability of the rice, cassava, and horticulture value chains, as well as improving access to agricultural inputs and extension services. FED also aims to enhance the productivity of goat farming in the target counties. The project's activities are designed to increase incomes and job opportunities for farmers, processors, suppliers, and other stakeholders. FED's approach to building local capacity involves working with local civil society, the private sector, and government institutions to develop the skills and knowledge needed to manage and operate commercial agricultural enterprises. The project's focus on women and youth is aimed at promoting their participation in the agricultural sector and improving their economic empowerment. The project's impact is expected to be significant, with increased food availability, utilization, and utilization leading to improved nutrition and improved economic opportunities for Liberians. FED's approach to building local capacity and promoting commercial agriculture is expected to have a lasting impact on the Liberian agricultural sector, contributing to the country's economic growth and development.