Liberia is emerging from a civil war (1989-2003) during which agricultural activities were severely disrupted and the agricultural research system destroyed. Cocoa has traditionally been a key commercial and poverty reduction crop in Liberia. An estimated 28,000 hectares were planted with cocoa by 1987; however recent production levels average around 2,000-3,000 metric tons per year. Nevertheless, cocoa presents an opportunity to improve the livelihoods of farmers and providing a solid platform for rural development. Production can be restarted, through tree rehabilitation and improved management, followed by replanting with appropriate planting material. Cocoa can generate relatively high incomes, particularly with an improved marketing system, while increasing productivity on existing farms can discourage expansion into forests. The Sustainable Tree Crops Program (STCP), building on its experience in the West Africa Region, aims to address these areas. STCP-Liberia is active in Bong, Lofa and Nimba Counties

Objectives of STCP program in Liberia include:

• Implement technical packages to raise productivity and product quality
• Strengthen community groups to interface with markets, enhance democracy and ensure sustainability
• Develop efficient marketing options associated with relevant information systems
• Engage public and private stakeholders to address policy and institutional constraints