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Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security (PI-CREF), has called for the expansion of Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector to drive economic growth, beyond traditional farming methods.
Speaking during the one-year anniversary celebration of the Feed Salone initiative and World Food Day in Kailahun District, Dr. Yumkella emphasized the need for diversification in agriculture as a key to unlocking the country’s economic potential.
“Agriculture is not only about growing rice and eating; it’s about diversifying our economy,” Dr. Yumkella said. He urged farmers and stakeholders to look beyond staple crops like rice and embrace innovative practices that could transform farming into a broader economic driver for Sierra Leone.
The event, which was also attended by President Julius Maada Bio, highlighted the achievements of the Feed Salone initiative launched to address food insecurity and boost agricultural productivity. President Bio, in his address, praised the efforts of Sierra Leoneans in responding to his call to engage in farming, but stressed that more work is needed. “There is more to do,” he said. “I encourage the young people of this country to embark on farming as it will help the entire nation’s development.”
President Bio also extended his gratitude to Dr. Yumkella for his role in attracting investors to the Feed Salone program. He specifically lauded the success of a recent Roundtable in Vienna, Austria, where over $800 million in pledges were secured to support the initiative. The president also thanked the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, for his leadership in steering the program.
Dr. Yumkella further stressed that the agricultural sector holds untapped potential that could serve as a catalyst for economic transformation. He noted that by moving away from a narrow focus on staple crops, Sierra Leone could embrace a wider array of agricultural products and practices that would boost both food security and economic diversity.
“Innovation in agriculture will not only ensure that we feed ourselves but will also lead to sustainable economic growth,” he said. Dr. Yumkella concluded his speech by commending President Bio’s leadership, stating, “With President Bio’s visionary leadership, the journey towards a vibrant and diversified economy now stands within reach.”
The Feed Salone initiative continues to gather momentum as the government, investors, and farmers collaborate to achieve food security and economic resilience for Sierra Leone.
