Sierra Leone is now producing about 72 percent of the rice it consumes, according to updates from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

The increase in local rice production is linked to steady efforts over the past six years in areas such as farming equipment, better seeds, and a digital system that helps farmers get seeds and other supplies more easily.

The Ministry says better seed systems have helped improve harvests, while the use of more machines has supported farmers in rice-growing areas. The digital platform for distributing supplies has also helped ensure farmers receive what they need on time.

These efforts are part of the Feed Salone programme, which is aimed at growing more food locally and reducing the need for imported rice.

Even with the progress made, challenges remain. Many parts of the country still lack proper rice processing facilities, and some rice is still brought in from outside to meet demand. The government says it is working to improve roads, electricity, water systems for farming, and build processing zones to support the entire rice sector.

There are also long-term plans to make Sierra Leone not just self-sufficient, but a country that can export rice to other places in the region.

The Ministry says the goal is to help farmers grow more, earn more, and reduce how much the country spends on food imports.