On Saturday, July 27, 2024, the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) held an Open Field Day at the Technology and Innovation Park in Port Loko district. Themed “Creating Awareness on the Use of Agricultural Technologies and Innovation,” the event aimed to engage producers, private sector stakeholders, policymakers, youth, and women’s groups in discussions about the latest advancements in agriculture.

Funded by the Food Systems Resilience Programme (FSRP) and the iREACH programme, coordinated by CORAF, the event represented a significant step toward enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Sierra Leone.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from various sectors, reflecting the diverse stakeholders dedicated to advancing agriculture. Key representatives delivered insightful speeches, emphasizing the crucial role of technology and innovation in modernizing agriculture and enhancing food security.

A representative from the private sector stressed the importance of collaboration between researchers and entrepreneurs in developing and deploying agricultural technologies that can significantly impact local farming practices. He stated, “The private sector is eager to partner with institutions like SLARI to ensure that the innovations being developed are both practical and accessible to farmers across the country.”

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The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by a spokesperson from Port Loko district, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote new technologies. “We aim to empower farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to increase productivity and improve livelihoods. Events like this Open Field Day are crucial in bridging the gap between research and practical application,” he remarked.

Women farmer groups shared their experiences, emphasizing the transformative potential of technology in agriculture. One participant noted, “The introduction of new tools and techniques has made farming more efficient and less labor-intensive, allowing us to produce more while also engaging in other income-generating activities.”

Youth groups, representing the next generation of farmers, expressed their excitement about the opportunities presented by agricultural technologies. A young farmer commented, “Being part of this event has inspired us to view agriculture not just as a means of livelihood, but as a business with great potential for growth and innovation.”

Mr. Sippo from the FSRP expressed his satisfaction with the progress made at the SLARI Technology and Innovation Park. He praised the collaborative efforts and tangible outcomes seen in the field. “It is encouraging to witness the tangible results of our collective efforts. I am pleased with the work that has taken place here and will be reporting back to the Programme Manager on the successes and the promising future of this initiative,” he stated.

The program concluded with an engaging tour of the park, where crop producers had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with various agricultural technologies on display. Demonstrations included innovative techniques for growing cowpea, maize, and orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP). Experts provided valuable insights, such as the optimal planting seasons and durations for different crops. Participants learned that cowpea and maize are best planted during the rainy season, while OFSP can be cultivated almost year-round, depending on water availability.

The tour also introduced participants to the SLICASS cassava varieties, known for their high yield and disease resistance. Farmers were informed about the optimal planting period and the duration for these cassava varieties to mature, aiding in effective planting schedule planning.

Media presence at the event amplified the reach of the Open Field Day, capturing the excitement and knowledge shared among participants. This coverage is expected to extend the event’s impact, encouraging more farmers and stakeholders to engage with the technologies and innovations showcased at the park.

As the event concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism and motivation among attendees. The Open Field Day at the SLARI Technology and Innovation Park not only highlighted the potential of agricultural technologies but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and learning that promises to drive the future of farming in Sierra Leone.