HOW DO WE WORK?

Technology & Innovation

Partnering with Local Communities

Through continuous research and development, UFA remains at the forefront of agricultural technology, driving the industry toward a more productive and sustainable future. The company's efforts are crucial in addressing the global challenges of food security and environmental conservation.

UFA Financing and Investing offers comprehensive financial solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our farmers. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the industry, UFA provides farmers and agribusinesses with the resources they need to thrive and grow.

UFA's financing options include customized rural farming credit facility – Central Agricultural Loan Facility (CALF) programs designed to support various agricultural operations, from crop production to livestock management.

It is shaped by decades of experience within Liberia communities and agriculture sectors. We affect change by combining real-world solutions: policy expertise, sustainable farming, and collaborative partnerships.

Our approach is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. We partner with farmers to understand their unique challenges and goals, offering tailored solutions that maximize productivity and profitability. Our commitment to transparency and continuous improvement ensures we deliver the highest quality service and results. Together, we cultivate success, one farm at a time.

Finance & Investing

To make a lasting impact, we know that we must actively engage and include the communities we are seeking to help. We are continually learning and growing in how we show up as an authentic, ethical partner.

OUR TEAM

Semeh Gebelee Robert Executive Director, UFA

Jefferson Walker Chairman

Board of Directors, UFA

Mr. Isaiah Q. Ziway - Finance/Admin officer

Mr. Kelvin Thomas County Coordinator

Mr. Jackson N. Wonde- Communication Officer/project Dev. Assistant

Mr. Victor S. Kaie Program Officer

PROFILE

Mr. Jefferson Walker

Chairman of the Board of Directors
Universal Farmers Association (UFA)

Mr. Jefferson Walker stands as a pillar of leadership, integrity, and vision at the helm of the Universal Farmers Association (UFA). As Chairman of the Board of Directors, he brings decades of experience in business administration, strategic operations, and community engagement to guide the organization’s mission of empowering local farmers and advancing sustainable agriculture across Liberia.

A proud alumnus of the University of Liberia, Mr. Walker earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1996, setting the foundation for a career marked by effective leadership and operational excellence. He went on to serve in pivotal roles within the university system, including Director of Stores and Director of Plan Operations, where he oversaw complex logistical operations and played a key role in institutional planning and resource management. His ability to streamline systems, manage budgets, and lead multidisciplinary teams has made him a respected figure in both academic and administrative circles.

Mr. Walker’s expertise extends far beyond operations; he is a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of organizational dynamics and long-term planning. His leadership is grounded in a clear vision for growth, transparency, and impact, qualities that are instrumental in shaping UFA’s direction and expanding its influence within Liberia’s agricultural sector.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr. Walker is a dedicated man of faith and service. As an Elder at the Christ Apostolic Church, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to spiritual and moral leadership within his community. His ability to lead with humility, compassion, and purpose continues to inspire those around him, making him not only a boardroom leader but also a trusted mentor and role model.

In 2019, joined the Universal Farmers Association as Chairman of the Board, Mr. Walker provides strong oversight, strategic guidance, and unwavering support to UFA’s management team. He plays a central role in driving organizational efficiency, fostering partnerships, and ensuring that every initiative aligns with UFA’s broader mission of improving farmers’ livelihoods and promoting food security.

Mr. Walker believes in the power of agriculture as a cornerstone of national development. Under his leadership, UFA is building stronger networks, advocating for policy improvements, and investing in the capacity of rural farmers to drive inclusive growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, accountability, and a steadfast belief that sustainable progress begins with empowering people at the grassroots.

With a career that bridges academia, administration, and community service, Mr. Jefferson Walker brings unparalleled experience and vision to UFA. His leadership continues to shape a future where Liberian farmers have the tools, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.

Mr. Jefferson Walker is a seasoned professional with a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Liberia, earned in 1992. He has held key leadership roles at the University of Liberia, including Director of Stores and Director of Plan Operations, where he demonstrated strong expertise in operational management and strategic planning.

In addition to his academic and professional accomplishments, Mr. Walker is a dedicated member of the Christ Apostolic Church, serving as an Elder. His commitment to leadership extends beyond his career, as he plays an active role in guiding and supporting his community.

With a robust background in business operations and a passion for service, Mr. Walker is focused on driving growth and enhancing organizational efficiency while contributing positively to society.

Mr. Nelson K. Jallah

Co-Chairman for Administration & Finance,

Board of Directors,

Mr. Nelson K. Jallah is a highly accomplished Accounting and Finance professional who brings over eight years of hands-on experience in financial leadership, strategic planning, and business management to the Universal Farmers Association (UFA). As the Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors with oversight for Administration and Finance, Mr. Jallah plays a pivotal role in shaping UFA’s financial strategy, ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth across the organization.

Renowned for his analytical acumen and results-driven approach, Mr. Jallah has built a solid reputation for delivering robust financial reporting, budget forecasting, and compliance with international accounting standards such as GAAP and IFRS. His exceptional ability to interpret complex financial data and transform it into actionable insights has empowered businesses to enhance profitability and reduce operational costs.

Currently, Mr. Jallah serves as the Managing Director of Budget Accounting Services Limited—an accounting firm serving approximately 100 clients. In this role, he leads a team of professionals dedicated to providing tailored financial solutions, ensuring clients achieve compliance and financial clarity. Under his leadership, the firm has become a trusted name for small and mid-sized enterprises seeking dependable accounting support.

His professional milestones include leading the financial reporting and budgeting process for a mid-sized enterprise, where he not only ensured timely compliance with regulatory requirements but also introduced strategic cost-saving initiatives that reduced operational costs by 18%. His financial insights have contributed to a 10% increase in profitability through smarter resource allocation and operational efficiency.

Mr. Jallah’s core competencies include:

· Financial reporting and analysis

· Budgeting and forecasting

· Cash flow management

· Tax preparation

· Financial software expertise (QuickBooks, Excel)

· Cost reduction strategies

· Business planning and advisory

· Team leadership and cross-functional collaboration

As a forward-thinking financial leader, Mr. Jallah is currently pursuing professional certification as an Associate Financial Accountant (AFA MIPA) with the Institute of Financial Accountants. He also holds an MSc in Accounting and Finance, a Postgraduate Certificate in International Accounting and Finance, and a Professional Certificate in Accountancy equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.

Within the Universal Farmers Association, Mr. Jallah brings not only technical financial expertise but also strategic vision and sound judgment. His leadership strengthens the organization’s capacity to manage resources responsibly, plan effectively, and achieve its mission of empowering rural communities through sustainable agriculture and livelihood transformation.

Passionate about transparency, development, and impact-driven finance, Mr. Jallah’s role on the Board ensures that UFA remains financially resilient and administratively robust—well-positioned to deliver long-term value for smallholder farmers and the communities it serves.

Semeh Gebelee Roberts

Secretary on The Board

Dedicated Administrator and Project Manager

Mr. Semeh Gebelee Roberts – Executive Director & Secretary General, Board of Directors
Universal Farmers Association (UFA)

Mr. Semeh Gebelee Roberts is a transformative leader and visionary development professional, serving as the Executive Director and Secretary General of the Board of Directors at the Universal Farmers Association (UFA). With an exceptional track record in cooperative development, microfinance, and agribusiness management, Mr. Roberts is at the forefront of driving rural empowerment and economic sustainability across Liberia.

With a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from the University of Liberia, Mr. Roberts combines academic rigor with hands-on leadership experience in both nonprofit and profit-making institutions. His strategic insight and ability to align vision with action have made him a powerful force in the design and execution of impactful community programs.

Throughout his career, Mr. Roberts has been instrumental in establishing and managing microfinance institutions, farming cooperatives, credit unions, and village savings and loan associations. His work has empowered hundreds of rural entrepreneurs and farmers to access financial services, improve productivity, and build sustainable livelihoods. Known for his results-driven approach, he excels in turning complex challenges into opportunities for growth.

His areas of expertise include:

ü Program and Project Management: From planning and implementation to monitoring and evaluation, Mr. Roberts has led several high-impact projects with measurable outcomes.

ü Client Relations and Community Engagement: He builds trust with stakeholders at all levels, forging partnerships that foster grassroots participation and long-term commitment.

ü Financial Management and Procurement: With advanced skills in budgeting, reporting, and procurement, he ensures every resource is used efficiently and transparently.

ü Conflict Resolution and Team Leadership: Adept at navigating sensitive situations, he promotes a collaborative work culture through clear communication and effective mediation.

ü Executive Communication: Whether presenting to donors or coordinating with field teams, Mr. Roberts delivers clarity, insight, and strategic direction.

His leadership has been sharpened by professional certifications, including:

Social Enterprise Capacity Development (Certificate of Excellence)

Microfinance Foundation Course (Cuttington University)

Strategic Planning & Management for Profit and Non-Profit Institutions (Central Bank of Liberia)

Agribusiness Lending Training (IBEX/IESC, sponsored by USAID)

As Executive Director of UFA, Mr. Roberts spearheads initiatives that blend financial inclusion with agricultural innovation. He is committed to transforming Liberia’s rural economy by equipping farmers with the tools, training, and access needed to thrive in a modern, sustainable agricultural sector. His leadership has been critical in expanding UFA’s reach and reinforcing its mission to build stronger, self-reliant farming communities.

Mr. Roberts is not only a seasoned administrator but also a passionate advocate for local development. His work is driven by the belief that empowering communities begins with investing in people. Through UFA, he continues to shape a future where agriculture is not just a means of survival but a pathway to prosperity, dignity, and national progress.

Victoria Summerville

Treasurer, Board of Directors
Universal Farmers Association (UFA)

Mrs. Victoria Sunnerville is a dynamic and results-oriented leader who brings a wealth of experience in community development, health advocacy, and financial stewardship to her role as Treasurer of the Board of Directors at the Universal Farmers Association (UFA). Her career spans multiple sectors, and she is widely respected for her unwavering commitment to transparency, empowerment, and positive social change.

With a professional journey rooted in service, Mrs. Sunnerville currently serves as Executive Director of Children Better Way (CBW) Inc., a community-based organization dedicated to uplifting the lives of vulnerable children and families across Liberia. Through this platform, she has led impactful initiatives focused on child welfare, education, and access to basic social services, championing a better future for Liberia’s next generation.

Her leadership further extends into faith-based community empowerment. As Chair Lady of the Christian Association Deliverance Church, Mrs. Sunnerville plays a vital role in nurturing spiritual growth, supporting women’s leadership, and organizing community outreach efforts. She also serves as Treasurer of the Church, where she manages the organization’s finances with diligence, honesty, and a deep sense of responsibility—qualities that now guide her work on UFA’s board.

In her role as UFA Treasurer, Mrs. Sunnerville is entrusted with safeguarding financial resources, enhancing accountability, and supporting strategic decision-making. She leverages her administrative and nonprofit finance background to ensure that UFA's resources are managed efficiently and ethically in support of its mission to promote sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods.

Victoria’s passion for civic engagement and fair governance is reflected in her service as an Election Monitor during the 2023 Presidential Elections in Liberia. Her role helped ensure transparency, fairness, and public trust in the democratic process. This experience highlights her integrity and belief in participatory leadership—values she also brings to the agricultural development space.

Adding an international dimension to her work, Mrs. Sunnerville previously held the role of Head of the HIV and AIDS and Community Development Department in Ghana. There, she focused on health education, prevention awareness, and support systems for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. This role solidified her expertise in public health advocacy and her deep understanding of the challenges facing underserved communities.

Academically, Victoria holds an Associate Degree in Public Health from Advantage University in Lower Margibi County. This foundation supports her ongoing mission to integrate health, education, and economic development initiatives for holistic community growth.

Mrs. Sunnerville is a trusted voice in both financial and social leadership circles. At UFA, she is not only a guardian of fiscal responsibility but also a strategic advisor who brings heart, experience, and vision to the boardroom. Her dedication to empowering people—whether through health, faith, education, or agriculture—makes her an indispensable force in driving UFA’s mission forward.

Victoria Sunnerville is an accomplished leader with a strong commitment to community service and development. As the Executive Director of Children Better Way (CBW) Inc., she has significantly contributed to improving the lives of children and families, advocating for better resources and opportunities. Her leadership extends to her role as Chair Lady of the Christian Association Deliverance Church, where she empowers women and fosters community engagement.

Victoria demonstrated her dedication to civic responsibility by serving as an Election Monitor during the 2023 presidential election, ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral process. Moreover, she has held the position of Head of the HIV and AIDS and Community Development Department in Ghana, focusing on health education and support for affected individuals and families. Additionally, she serves as the Treasurer for the Christian Association Deliverance Church, managing financial resources with integrity and transparency.

Education:
Victoria holds an Associate Degree in Public Health from Advantage University, located in Lower Margibi County. This academic foundation underpins her professional endeavors and passion for promoting community health and well-being.

Mrs. Elizabeth Daniels

Chaplain, Board of Directors
Mrs. Elizabeth Daniels is a devoted community educator, spiritual leader, and advocate for family empowerment who serves as the Chaplain of the Board of Directors at the Universal Farmers Association (UFA). With a heart for service and a passion for education and spiritual growth, she brings compassion, wisdom, and moral guidance to UFA’s mission of advancing rural development and agricultural sustainability in Liberia.

Currently based in Duazon, Margibi County, Mrs. Daniels plays a pivotal role in providing spiritual support and values-based leadership within the UFA board. Her work as Chaplain is deeply rooted in her belief that faith, community development, and education go hand-in-hand in building a stronger, more resilient society.

Mrs. Daniels has been a dedicated Instructor with Family Literacy Initiatives since 2017. Through this role, she teaches literacy and life skills to families in underserved communities along the RTA Highway. Her classroom is not just a place of learning but a nurturing space where students of all ages are empowered to break the cycle of illiteracy and build brighter futures. Her hands-on experience has made her a trusted voice in grassroots education and a champion for community transformation.

She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at the African Methodist Episcopal University in Monrovia, reflecting her unwavering commitment to personal growth and academic excellence. Her dedication to learning is an inspiration to both

Mr. Victor S. Kaie

Program Officer
Mr. Victor S. Kaie is a passionate agricultural professional dedicated to advancing sustainable farming practices and empowering rural communities through practical, knowledge-driven solutions. As the Program Officer of the Universal Farmers Association (UFA), Victor plays a vital role in planning, coordinating, and implementing programs that support smallholder farmers and promote agricultural resilience across Liberia.

Armed with a strong academic background and hands-on field experience, Victor brings a rare combination of technical knowledge and administrative precision to his work. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Science from Cuttington University, as well as an Associate Degree in General Agriculture from Cuttington Junior College. These qualifications have provided him with a comprehensive understanding of crop management, soil conservation, sustainable farming systems, and agroecological practices suited to Liberia’s unique agricultural landscape.

Complementing his technical expertise is a Diploma in Secretarial Science from the Booker Washington Institute (BWI), which has sharpened his organizational, communication, and documentation skills—key attributes for executing development programs, managing stakeholder relationships, and ensuring smooth project operations.

Based in Lower Margibi County, Victor is deeply rooted in the community he serves. He understands firsthand the challenges faced by local farmers and works tirelessly to connect them with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to increase productivity and improve livelihoods. His work as Program Officer involves everything from designing farmer training modules and monitoring project progress to engaging with government agencies, NGOs, and donor organizations.

Victor is particularly passionate about finding innovative and scalable solutions to agricultural challenges, including low yields, poor soil health, and limited market access. His forward-thinking approach has made him a key figure in UFA’s mission to promote climate-smart agriculture, improve food security, and foster economic development in rural Liberia.

What sets Victor apart is his commitment to collaboration and capacity building. He thrives in team environments, values knowledge-sharing, and is always looking to partner with individuals and organizations that share a vision for a thriving, self-sufficient agricultural sector. Whether facilitating farmer field schools, evaluating soil management practices, or contributing to strategic planning, Victor brings energy, dedication, and a results-driven mindset to every initiative.

At UFA, Victor is more than a program officer—he is a bridge between theory and practice, policy and people, innovation and impact. His work continues to shape a future where Liberian farmers are equipped, empowered, and economically resilient.

With his blend of technical knowledge, administrative skill, and heartfelt dedication to service, Mr. Victor S. Kaie is helping lead the charge toward a stronger, greener, and more sustainable agricultural future for Liberia.

ISAIAH Q. ZIWAY

Administrative & Financial Officer
Isaiah Q. Ziway brings a dynamic blend of financial expertise, administrative precision, and a strong commitment to community development to his role as Administrative and Financial Officer at the Universal Farmers Association (UFA).

With a solid academic foundation in Business Administration from the University of Liberia and a Diploma in Accounting from Booker Washington Institute (BWI), Isaiah offers UFA a structured approach to financial management, budget planning, and operational oversight. His experience working with development-focused organizations across Liberia has sharpened his ability to implement efficient financial systems, track expenditures, and support transparency and accountability in every aspect of the organization’s operations.

At UFA, Isaiah plays a critical role in ensuring that financial and administrative processes align with the organization’s mission to empower local farmers and strengthen rural livelihoods. He brings a meticulous eye for detail, a data-driven mindset, and a passion for supporting sustainable agricultural initiatives.

Beyond the numbers, Isaiah is a natural communicator and team player. His background in education and community service,ranging from teaching in the classroom to volunteering with the YMCA in Liberia, gives him a unique ability to connect with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including local farmers, partners, and donors.

Through his work at UFA, Isaiah is not just managing resources; he’s helping build a resilient and self-reliant agricultural sector in Liberia, one well-organized step at a time

Kelvin J. Thomas
County Coordinator
Detail-oriented and dedicated agricultural professional with extensive experience in field coordination, election supervision, and agricultural data management. Proven ability to oversee field activities, coordinate teams, and ensure adherence to procedural standards in diverse settings. Possesses strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to contributing positively to community and national development efforts. Adept at working under pressure and managing multiple responsibilities efficiently.

Educational Background

Associate Degree in General Agriculture
Cuttington Junior College, Kakata, Margibi County
2020 – 2021

• Completed comprehensive coursework in crop production, pest management, soil science, and sustainable farming practices.

• Participated in practical fieldwork, enhancing hands-on farming skills and environmental stewardship.

National Diploma in General Agriculture
Booker Washington Institute (BWI), Kakata, Margibi County
2016 – 2017

• Focused on core agricultural principles, including livestock management, farm machinery, and agricultural economics.

• Gained practical experience through internships and farm projects, emphasizing crop and livestock production.

Professional Experience

• Supervision and Planning: Developed daily operational plans and coordinated field activities to ensure the successful implementation of agricultural projects.

• Team Leadership: Managed and guided field staff, providing support, training, and oversight to optimize productivity and adherence to project guidelines.

• Reporting: Maintained detailed records of field activities, progress reports, and logistical updates, and submitted reports to the program officer timely.

• Community Engagement: Worked closely with local farmers and community leaders to promote sustainable farming practices and increase productivity.

National Election Commission (NEC)

Location: Grand Cape Mount County
Position: Presiding Officer (PO)
Year: 2023

• Election Management: Led the operations at a designated polling center, ensuring the election process was conducted in a transparent, fair, and orderly manner.

• Training & Supervision: Trained and supervised local polling staff on election protocols, voter verification, and ballot handling procedures.

• Voter Engagement: Ensured voter turnout and facilitated an environment of integrity and trust.

• Reporting & Compliance: Maintained detailed records of polling activities, discrepancies, and submitted official reports to election authorities.

Equatorial Palm Oil

Location: Grand Bassa County
Position: Contractor (Censusing and Data Collection)
Year: 2020

• Data Collection: Conducted censuses of oil palm plantations, ensuring accurate counting and recording of palm trees across designated blocks.

• Branch Counting: Managed counting of black and red palm branches in each block, contributing to plantation management and productivity tracking.

• Reporting: Prepared and submitted detailed reports on orchard conditions, census data, and counting results for agricultural oversight.

· Jackson N. Wonde

Communication/Program Development Assistant

· Results-focused IT and Project Management Expert with more than 20 years of progressive international experience with leading operational excellence, digitalization, and strategic projects in public, NGO, and private sectors in Africa (Liberia, DRC, Guinea, and Liberia).

Well-experienced in:
IT Management & Strategy: Full lifecycle IT leadership from infrastructure (networks, servers, security), system administration, budget management ($100k+), disaster recovery planning, and policy development. Versed in Linux, Cisco, VSAT, and cloud technologies.
Project Leadership & Risk Mitigation: Proven experience in managing sophisticated projects (e.g., UNICEF evaluation, IT overhauls), risk capture, developing mitigation strategies, and maintaining international standards compliance (UNICEF, organizational policy).
Operational Excellence & Change Management: Track record of spearheading performance scorecard deployment, organizational change leadership, challenging the status quo, and getting cross-functional teams (senior leaders to front-line) aligned to achieve inspirational objectives.
Stakeholder Communication & Engagement: Excellent ability to interact with senior executives (Ministers, Directors), international partners (UNICEF, NGOs), media, and technical staff. Policy writing experience and communications strategy handling, as well as stakeholder reporting.
Team Building & Mentoring: Strong history of recruiting, training, managing, and mentoring IT and project staff to enhance performance and professional development.
Consistently delivers solutions to enhance efficiency, address compliance, and achieve client satisfaction in difficult circumstances.
Focuses on results (driving transformation, meeting targets, ensuring compliance, increasing efficiency, and client satisfaction).
Contextualizes Experience: Lists experience in "challenging environments" and "public, NGO, and private sectors."
Concise Language: Uses strong action verbs (Driving, Leading, Implementing, Liaising, Delivering).
Focuses on senior-level responsibilities and accomplishments, erasing task-level detail and very early career positions unless extremely important.
Additional language: French

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