Sierra Leone, in the heart of Bramaia Chiefdom, a dynamic group of young men and women is reshaping the narrative of youth participation in agriculture. At a time when many young Sierra Leoneans are migrating to urban centers or seeking opportunities abroad, the Khireh Anun Kinfeh Youth Organization has chosen a different path, cultivating change from the soil.

Founded in 2014, the organization, whose name translates to “Hoe and Cutlass” in the local Susu language, comprises over 30 active members committed to using agriculture as a tool for empowerment, food security, and community transformation.

According to Abdul Karim Dumbuya, the group’s Public Relations Officer, the initiative was born out of both frustration and hope. “Most of us were sitting without jobs after school,” he said. “We realized agriculture sustained our parents for generations. So we pooled our resources and began cultivating cassava and rice on a large scale.”

Today, the group manages several acres of farmland near Kukuna Town, producing staple crops such as cassava and rice, key ingredients in local dishes like gari and fufu. With rising demand both locally and internationally, the youth see these crops as strategic assets for economic sustainability and national food security.

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Beyond farming, the organization has taken on community development projects, including the rehabilitation and maintenance of damaged roads across Bramaia Chiefdom. Every Monday during the rainy season, members voluntarily clear debris, fill potholes, and reinforce road surfaces using locally sourced materials.

“Our work is tough and unpaid, but it’s rewarding,” Dumbuya said. “We’re doing this not only for ourselves but for the future of our community. When young people are engaged in productive work, there’s less crime, less illegal migration, and more hope for families.”

Despite their achievements, the group faces significant challenges. Dumbuya highlighted the need for modern farming tools, improved seeds, and financial support. “We still rely on manual labor, hoes and cutlasses. With tractors, fertilizers, and processing machines, we could do much more,” he emphasized.

Local elders have donated land to support the initiative, impressed by the youths’ dedication. The project has also fostered unity and collaboration among members, creating a space where ideas flourish and friendships grow.

The Khireh Anun Kinfeh Youth Organization stands as a powerful example of grassroots innovation and resilience. Their story underscores the importance of investing in youth-led agricultural initiatives to drive rural development and reduce dependency on food imports.

Dumbuya’s message to fellow young people is clear: “You don’t need money or fame to make a difference. Start where you are, with what you have.”

For these young farmers in Bramaia Chiefdom, that philosophy continues to cultivate hope, one farm and one road at a time.