19/06/2025
LACRA Director General Details Transformative Reforms and Growth in 2024
By: Thomasline M. Clarke
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA) has achieved notable progress in 2024, driven by transformative reforms under the leadership of Director General Christopher D. Sankolo. Speaking at a Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) press briefing, Director Sankolo outlined the agency’s renewed mandate and its significant contributions to revitalizing Liberia’s agricultural sector.
Established in 2018 as the successor to the Liberia Produce Marketing Corporation (LPMC), LACRA was created to provide strong regulatory oversight of the country’s agricultural commodity sector. Its mandate encompasses key export crops including cocoa, coffee, rice, and palm oil. In contrast to the LPMC’s operational role in purchasing and exporting commodities, LACRA is focused on ensuring transparency, quality control, and sustainability throughout the agricultural value chain.
When I assumed office, LACRA faced numerous institutional and operational challenges—ranging from infrastructure deficits to weak enforcement mechanisms,” Director Sankolo stated. “Through a comprehensive reform agenda, we have not only addressed these issues but are building an institution that farmers, exporters, and international partners can trust.”
Among the reforms highlighted were the strengthening of regulatory frameworks, the rollout of digitized tracking and monitoring systems, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration. These initiatives have aimed to streamline processes, reduce corruption, and align Liberia’s agricultural exports with international standards.
“These reforms are not just about improving institutional performance,” Sankolo said. “They are about securing the livelihoods of our farmers, promoting fair trade, and ensuring that Liberian commodities are competitive on the global stage.”
In addition, LACRA has prioritized decentralization, expanding its presence in rural counties to improve field monitoring and farmer engagement. Capacity building for cooperatives and smallholder farmers has also been a key focus, supported through partnerships with international organizations working to improve certification, traceability, and market access.
Looking ahead, Director Sankolo reaffirmed LACRA’s commitment to strengthening Liberia’s position in the global agricultural marketplace while supporting national goals around food security and rural development.
“With sustained reforms and the support of all stakeholders,” he concluded, “Liberia’s agricultural future is not only promising—it is already unfolding.”
