By Nukanah Kollie
GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY –After decades of dispute and failed negotiations, the Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA) has successfully reclaimed its Bong County estate, resolving a protracted land conflict that dates back to the 1970s.
The 430-acre property, originally established by the defunct Liberia Produce Marketing Corporation (LPMC), had been under contention for years. Despite multiple attempts at negotiation under the leadership of former Director Generals Dr. John Flomo and Mr. Christopher Sankolo, no resolution had been reached, until now.
Upon assuming office, Acting Director General Dan Torkamawon Saryee, Sr. placed a strong emphasis on reclaiming the agency’s encroached properties, making the Bong County estate a priority. His leadership led to a breakthrough in discussions, culminating in a peaceful and permanent agreement with the local families involved.
“This is a major step forward for LACRA and the agricultural sector of Liberia,” said Director Saryee. “By making the reclamation of our properties a top priority, we are not only restoring the integrity of our assets but also laying the groundwork for significant investment and job creation in Bong County.”
The resolution was achieved through the dedicated efforts of the LACRA negotiating team, led by Director Saryee and supported by Deputy Director General for Finance, Mr. Adolphus Forkpa, and other staff members. Crucially, the process was guided by the Bong County Land Administrator, Ms. Amelia Cassell, whose mediation helped bridge gaps and build trust among the parties.
Though the estate was significantly reduced from its original size of over 600 acres due to encroachment, the reclaimed land still includes valuable infrastructure and agricultural assets, such as warehouses, guest houses, office buildings, palm and coffee farms, and fish ponds.
With the land back under LACRA’s control, the agency plans to rejuvenate the estate and use it to promote local farming and agribusiness. Officials say the move will generate employment and boost the production of key export crops like cocoa, coffee, and oil palm.
Local family representatives praised the peaceful outcome and pledged to support the agency’s investment plans. “We thank Director Saryee and his team for their commitment to a fair and lasting solution,” said one spokesperson. “We look forward to partnering with LACRA and benefiting from the new investments this will bring to our community.”
About LACRA
The Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority is a statutory agency of the Government of Liberia, tasked with the oversight, promotion, and development of the country’s agricultural commodities particularly cocoa, coffee, and oil palm.
