As the government’s flagship agenda marks one year, the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka revealed ambitious plans of the ‘Feed Salone’ for the next two years, including the development of 16,000 hectares of Inland Valley Swamps, strengthening the seed systems, scaling up livestock projects, and industrializing cassava production.

He also mentioned the creation of the country’s first farmer registry and the establishment of insurance policies for farmers.

The Minister called for increased civic engagement, stressing that Feed Salone is a national initiative requiring the participation of all Sierra Leoneans.

He made the disclosure On Monday 7th October, 2024 at State House during the briefing of Presidential Council on ‘Feed Salone’ to President Julius Maada Bio on first year progress of the flagship project.

Dr. Kpaka outlined some of the notable achievements, including the mobilization of over $1 billion in funding and technical support, which has enabled the government to invest heavily in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and irrigation systems nationwide..

Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka who doubles as Secretary to the Council, updated President Bio on the key achievements over the past year.
He highlighted the development of strategic policies and partnerships with local and international stakeholders, aimed at facilitating the successful implementation of Feed Salone.

He said institutional frameworks have been established to guide the initiative, ensuring a strong foundation for its continued
President Julius Maada Bio expressed his gratitude to the Council for their dedication and belief in the vision of Feed Salone. He acknowledged the significant progress made in just one year, attributing it to the collective efforts of the Council members and their diverse professional expertise.

“I have aggressively sought funding both within and outside Sierra Leone to realize the promise I made to the people,” President Bio said. “I have made strong cases for Feed Salone to our international partners, which has resulted in pledges that will support our agricultural agenda and value chain program. It is our responsibility to prepare projects that will ensure we can access those pledges.”

The President reiterated his commitment to ensuring that Sierra Leone can feed itself, stating that this requires collective determination and responsibility. “With the combined wisdom and experience of this Council, I am confident we will succeed in delivering on Feed Salone,” he assured.

Credit State House Media and Communications Unit