Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio marked the first anniversary of the Feed Salone Initiative in Kailahun Town Field, Eastern Region, during World Food Day celebrations. The event was themed "Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future." The President urged citizens to grow their own food, emphasizing that individual efforts in farming could help achieve national food self-sufficiency.
President Bio highlighted the importance of large-scale farming but stressed that every citizen's participation is crucial for an agricultural revolution. He reflected on his first-term focus on education, which increased school attendance among girls, and thanked First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for her advocacy for girls' protection.
The President showcased his personal commitment by cultivating over 1,400 acres of rice and 500 acres of oil palm. He clarified that Feed Salone is about the welfare of Sierra Leoneans rather than political gain.
Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, expressed gratitude to farmers for their efforts since Feed Salone's launch. He encouraged patience as the government works to improve agriculture.
Mr. Saeed Abubakar Bancie from the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) commended President Bio's dedication to agriculture through Feed Salone amid global hunger challenges. FAO pledged continued support in providing livestock and innovative practices.
Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, appreciated farmers' support for Feed Salone. He emphasized October 16th as significant due to its link with Feed Salone's launch and urged leveraging resources to make agriculture Sierra Leone’s breadbasket.
Dr. Kpaka noted farmers' embrace of widespread agricultural engagement across the country and assured them that their contributions are vital in conserving foreign reserves through local production in various sectors like rice and poultry.
The Minister promised ongoing efforts until Sierra Leone can produce affordable rice compared to imports while improving market access through better infrastructure and financial support for farmers.
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