The study focuses on assessing workforce skills requirements and the capacity of local training providers for the oil palm value chain in Liberia. It highlights the need for both skilled and semi-skilled workers in areas such as nursery development, soil preparation, farm management, and basic agricultural tasks like planting and harvesting. It shows that the oil palm industry holds significant potential for economic growth and poverty reduction, with projections of creating 156,000 jobs by 2030.

Survey results indicate a substantial skills gap in the industry, particularly in processing, ICT, report writing, and entrepreneurship. To address these gaps and support industry growth, the study recommends several strategic interventions including strengthening training institutions, developing demand-driven curricula, offering short skills courses for unemployed youth, and encouraging private sector investment in research and skills development.

Policy recommendations advocate for the enhancement of training infrastructure, expanding extension services to smallholder farmers, establishing county-level or commercial nurseries, and developing small processing plants. Additionally, forming a marketing consortium to stabilize fresh fruit bunch prices and prioritizing research and data collection are essential for informed decision-making and sustainable development in the sector.