U.S. Ambassador Witnesses Food Security Initiatives in Kenema

U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone Bryan Hunt visited Kenema this week to observe firsthand how U.S. government funding is supporting food security initiatives in the region.

Through a $3.2 million grant to the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in 2022, the U.S. government and its partners are providing assistance to vulnerable households and bolstering the school feeding program.

Ambassador Hunt engaged with smallholder farmers from the Gbotima Farmers’ Association in Bandawor town to delve into the ongoing efforts to achieve food security. He also visited the National Islamic Primary School in the same town to witness the school feeding program in action. Over 69,700 children, 52% of whom are girls, in 328 schools across Kenema district benefit from a daily hot meal.

With U.S. government support, WFP has also assisted over 1,400 smallholder farmers in the district in cultivating 181 hectares of inland valley swamp, enabling year-round cultivation in alignment with the Government of Sierra Leone’s ‘Feed Salone’ initiative.

During his visit, Ambassador Hunt commended local leaders in Kenema for their active engagement with farmers and school administrators in addressing the severe impacts of the ongoing global food crisis. While challenges persist in securing food systems in Sierra Leone, the Ambassador expressed his assurance, stating, “It is reassuring to witness community members working together to develop sustainable solutions. I am proud that the U.S. government can play a role in supporting these efforts.”