In a recent interview with Radio Democracy, Chief Executive Officer of Sierra Bo, Garie Rashid A. Conteh, emphasized the urgent need to increase cassava production in Sierra Leone. Conteh’s appeal aligns with President Bio’s Feed Salone Program, which aims to bolster food security across the country.

Conteh stressed the importance of cassava, a staple food in Sierra Leone, in reducing the nation’s reliance on rice imports. He highlighted the role of the garie production facility at Mano River Union in Bo District, the largest of its kind in the region. The factory processes cassava into garie using advanced technology and currently produces 10% of the garie available in the market, boasting superior packaging that represents Sierra Leone.

Despite these advancements, Conteh pointed out several challenges facing the industry, including inconsistent electricity supply, limited access to raw materials, and financial constraints. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic about cassava’s potential to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance the agricultural sector.

Conteh called on the government to invest more in local agricultural products, facilitate access to necessary machinery, and provide sustainable financing to support farmers and processors. He urged the government to prioritize cassava as a strategic solution for decreasing rice imports and improving food security.

In conclusion, Conteh, who also leads the Sierra Leone Association of Cassava Producers and Processors, vowed to continue training farmers on best practices and new technologies. His goal is to boost local production and create more export opportunities for Sierra Leone’s garie products.