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During a forward-looking engagement in Nigeria, UNDP Sierra Leone Resident Representative Fredrick Ampiah and a Sierra Leone delegation met with Dr. Simeon Ehui, Director General of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, to begin discussions on a collaboration framework aimed at transforming Sierra Leone’s agricultural potential into sustainable livelihoods, particularly for women and young people.
The meeting brought together development leaders and agricultural research experts to identify practical pathways for partnership. Discussions focused on how innovation, research, technical expertise, and strategic investments can be combined to strengthen Sierra Leone’s food systems, accelerate agro-industrial growth, and create jobs across rural and peri-urban communities.
According to officials, the proposed framework would go beyond a single project by creating a platform for UNDP Sierra Leone and IITA to coordinate research-driven interventions, capacity building, and investment-ready initiatives tailored to Sierra Leone’s climatic, social, and economic realities.
Agriculture remains a key pillar of Sierra Leone’s economy and a major source of employment. However, productivity, value addition, and resilience to climate shocks continue to face challenges.
Stakeholders noted that a strategic partnership with IITA could provide Sierra Leone with access to decades of tropical agriculture research and proven technologies adaptable to local conditions.
The collaboration is also expected to place strong emphasis on women and youth, seen as critical drivers of economic growth. Increased access to inputs, training, and markets for women could improve household incomes and nutrition, while expanding opportunities for young people in agriculture and agribusiness may help diversify rural economies and reduce urban migration pressures.
The engagement marks a promising step toward unlocking Sierra Leone’s agricultural potential through research, innovation, and inclusive development.
