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Journalists Against Hunger (JAH), an initiative born from President Julius Maada Bio’s “Feed Salone” agenda, is urgently seeking assistance to harvest its over 200-acre rice farm located in Kamathun Village, Biriwa Chiefdom, Bombali District.
The organization, spearheaded by media professionals, has taken a bold step toward contributing to Sierra Leone’s food security by cultivating this large-scale farm. However, the group now faces a critical challenge as they prepare for harvest without access to a combined harvester machine.
Lansana Fofanah, CEO of JAH, emphasized that the rice farm is a direct response to the global call to combat hunger and poverty. He noted that while the project is a significant achievement, it requires collaborative efforts to ensure its success.
“The fight against hunger and poverty in our nation can only be won through collective action,” Fofanah remarked.
Despite the farm’s readiness for harvest, the lack of a combined harvester poses a serious threat to the yield. Fofanah expressed concern over the potential loss if they are unable to harvest the rice in time.
“We are preparing to harvest our first project, but without the necessary machinery, we risk seeing our hard work result in low yields,” he explained.
In addition to its contribution to the “Feed Salone” agenda, the farm has created job opportunities for young people in the region, furthering the initiative’s impact on local communities.
Fofanah appealed to both public and private sector entities for support, stressing the importance of not letting their efforts go to waste.
Drawing inspiration from Pastor Francis Mambu, a prominent figure who successfully engaged in farming outside his pastoral duties, Fofanah challenged others to recognize the potential of journalists to make a difference beyond their profession.
“If Pastor Mambu can do it out of the pulpit, then we, as journalists, can do it as well,” he affirmed.
With harvest season rapidly approaching, JAH is calling for immediate support in acquiring the necessary equipment to prevent significant losses and maximize their contribution to Sierra Leone’s food security efforts.
