The Ministry of Finance on Tuesday 31st July 2024 coordinated a meeting between the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), to agree on a proposal by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) for NaCSA and MAFS to work together to ensure the successful completion of the Palm Oil Production Project located in Sogbeni and Jong Chiefdoms in Bonthe District.

When completed, the project, which is funded by the Islamic Development Bank and GoSL, will produce 10 metric tons of palm oil per hour.

The objective of the project, which was approved in August 2010, is to contribute to the improvement of food security and the reduction of poverty among the rural population through the development of the Palm Oil Value Chain in the framework of South-South Cooperation. The current project will  operate under a public-private community partnership

The Chairman of the Coordination meeting Mr. S. E. B . Momoh, the Principal Deputy Financial Secretary, informed both NaCSA and MAFS that the proposal for both government institutions to work together emanated from the IsDB and that parties should make decisions for the good of the country. More Momoh, who moderated the meeting, read out a letter from the IsDB that spells out the Bank’s proposal.

The Commissioner of NaCSA, Amb Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina expressed his institution’s willingness to collaborate with the MAFS on the project as long as the decision will go towards achieving HE President Julius Maada Bio’s Feed Salone Initiative.

Mr Andrew Sorie, the Senior Permanent Secretary who led the Ministry of Agriculture team comprising the Palm Oil Production  Project Coordinator, Mr Kallon, and Project Finance Officer intimated that the POPP when completed will bring huge economic and social benefits to the country. He said that the MAFS was delighted to work with NaCSA for the successful completion of the project.

The Commissioner of NaCSA was accompanied by Senior Directors, Directors, and the SLCDD team