President Bio Engages South Korean K-Rice Belt Initiative Team for Enhanced Rice Production in Sierra Leone
Aaron Parker President Julius Maada Bio welcomed a technical team from South Korea’s K-Rice Belt Initiative to discuss plans for enhancing rice production in Sierra Leone.
The team, led by Jae-Hyeon Ryu, presented findings from a pre-feasibility study, highlighting Bo Manehun in the Bonthe District as a potential site due to its favorable characteristics.
President Bio expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of knowledge transfer and local involvement.
The K-Rice Belt Initiative aims to improve rice cultivation capabilities, and Sierra Leone’s partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed in October 2023.
The President pledged full government support, including infrastructure improvements. Implementation is set to commence this year, following the return of the Korean team to present their findings to their government.
The initiative aligns with efforts to increase food security and reduce dependence on rice imports in Sierra Leone.