Our Work
The Hope Farm Fund offers a unique opportunity for individuals and organizations to contribute to the mission of Hope Farm through two distinct channels. As a non-profit arm, the Hope Farm Fund welcomes donations that directly support the farm's initiatives, including teaching and promoting sustainable agriculture practices, empowering local farmers, and fostering community development. Additionally, the fund provides avenues for investors to financially support the growth and expansion of Hope Farm while also earning returns on their investment. By investing in Hope Farm, individuals can play a vital role in advancing sustainable agriculture, promoting food security, and driving positive social and environmental change in Liberia and beyond.
The Problem
Liberia faces significant challenges in its agricultural sector, characterized by a heavy reliance on food imports, underdeveloped farming practices, and high youth unemployment. Although official statistics might suggest a low unemployment rate, they often mask the reality that many young people struggle to earn enough to survive. With around 40% of the population living below the poverty line, there is an urgent need for sustainable economic opportunities that can provide a stable income and improve food security.
Agriculture presents a viable solution to these challenges, but the sector is severely underfunded, receiving less than 5% of the national budget. This lack of investment results in outdated farming practices and limited access to quality agricultural inputs, hindering productivity. Additionally, the country's youth, who form a large part of the labor force, are often left without the skills and resources necessary to engage in profitable farming. This gap creates a cycle of poverty that perpetuates food insecurity and economic instability.
Our Solution
Hope Farm addresses the critical challenges of food insecurity and youth unemployment in Liberia through a holistic and sustainable agricultural approach. Our initiative focuses on empowering young farmers by providing comprehensive training programs that cover sustainable farming practices, poultry management, and business skills. By equipping these young people with the knowledge and tools necessary to establish and manage their own microfarms, we create pathways for economic independence and community resilience.
A cornerstone of our program is the dual-purpose poultry production model, which combines high-quality egg and meat production tailored to the local market's preferences. This model not only reduces Liberia's heavy reliance on imported poultry products but also generates reliable income streams for young farmers. Additionally, our farm produces a variety of crops, including vegetables, cassava, and plantains, which further enhance food security and provide additional revenue sources. By integrating these farmers into a network that links their produce to both local and international markets, we ensure a stable and reliable market for their goods, fostering sustainable economic growth.
The outcomes of Hope Farm’s interventions are transformative. Our programs has encouraged young Liberians to become interested in agriculture by enrolling in the training program. Postgraduation, 97% start and are coninuing to operate their farms successfully. These young farmers have seen a 400% increase in their incomes, significantly improving their quality of life and economic prospects. Moreover, the initiative contributes to national food security by increasing the availability of locally produced, high-quality foods.
We strongly believe that by empowering a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs, Hope Farm is creating a sustainable model of development that addresses immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term resilience and growth in Liberia’s agricultural sector. This comprehensive approach not only meets the current demand for locally produced and affordable nutrients but also supports broader community development and economic stability.
Our Primary Focus
Cassava
Plantains
Plantains
Cassava, also known as manioc or yuca, is a staple crop in many tropical regions, particularly in Africa, Asia, and South America. This starchy root vegetable is highly valued for its versatility, resilience, and nutritional benefits. Cassava is rich in carbohydrates, providing a significant source of energy in the diets of millions of people worldwide. Additionally, cassava is gluten-free and contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. Cassava can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, frying, steaming, and baking, and is used to make a wide range of traditional dishes, such as cassava bread, cassava fries, and cassava cakes. Furthermore, cassava plays a crucial role in food security and economic development, as it is well-suited to grow in diverse agroecological conditions and provides a reliable source of income for millions of smallholder farmers. Overall, cassava represents a valuable and resilient crop with the potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture, nutrition security, and livelihood improvement in tropical regions worldwide.
Plantains
Plantains
Plantains
Plantains, starchy fruits belonging to the banana family, are widely cultivated and consumed in tropical regions, particularly in West Africa. Rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, plantains are a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Plantain flour, made by drying and milling ripe plantains, serves as a versatile and gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, retaining much of the nutritional value of fresh plantains. Used in a variety of recipes, from baked goods to soups and sauces, plantain flour offers a subtly sweet flavor and dense texture, making it a popular choice for gluten-free and grain-free cooking. Overall, plantains and plantain flour contribute to food security, economic development, and sustainable agriculture, offering a nutritious and versatile option for individuals.
Vegetables
Poultry for Eggs
Poultry for Eggs
Hot habanero peppers are a staple ingredient in West African cuisine, known for their fiery heat and distinctive flavor profile. These small, lantern-shaped peppers are prized for their intense spiciness, which adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. In West African cooking, habanero peppers are often used in soups, stews, sauces, and marinades, providing a bold and vibrant flavor that complements traditional ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and grains. Beyond their culinary appeal, habanero peppers also offer potential health benefits due to their high concentration of capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat. Capsaicin has been associated with various health-promoting properties, including pain relief, improved metabolism, and enhanced cardiovascular health. Additionally, habanero peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants that support immune function and overall well-being. Despite their intense heat, habanero peppers are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that adds both flavor and health benefits to West African cuisine.
Poultry for Eggs
Poultry for Eggs
Poultry for Eggs
West African local chickens, often referred to as roadrunner chickens, are an integral part of traditional farming systems in the region, prized for their adaptability, resilience, and unique flavor. Unlike commercial breeds, these indigenous chickens are well-suited to local environmental conditions, thriving in diverse climates and terrain. Known for their scavenging behavior, roadrunner chickens roam freely, foraging for insects, seeds, and other natural foods, which contributes to their distinct taste and nutritional quality. In West African cuisine, these chickens are highly esteemed for their rich flavor and tender texture, making them a popular choice for traditional dishes such as chicken stew, grilled chicken, and jollof rice. Additionally, roadrunner chickens play a significant role in local economies and cultural practices, serving as a source of income, food security, and social cohesion within rural communities. Despite the rise of commercial poultry farming, West African local chickens continue to hold cultural significance and are valued for their contribution to sustainable agriculture and culinary heritage in the region.
