By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a significant call for action, the Board Chair of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, has urged the government of Sierra Leone to work hand-in-hand with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the Feed Salone Initiative.
Speaking at a special press conference organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education February 7, 2025 at the Miatta Conference Hall in Freetown, Desalegn highlighted Sierra Leone’s vast agricultural potential and the transformative opportunities it holds. “Sierra Leone is a rich country, not just in terms of its natural resources but in its ability to make a real difference in agriculture and other critical sectors,” he stated passionately. “I have witnessed notable progress and transformation since my arrival here, and it is evident that the government has a strong vision and passion to achieve its flagship initiative for the people.”
Desalegn’s remarks underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and commitment in ensuring that Sierra Leone’s agriculture sector thrives, ultimately leading to food security, economic empowerment, and national development. He emphasized that with the right policies, partnerships, and implementation strategies, the Feed Salone Initiative could become a model for other African nations striving for agricultural sustainability.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, expressed his profound appreciation for Desalegn’s visit, acknowledging the wealth of experience and knowledge he brings to the table.
“I am deeply grateful for His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn’s vision and passion. His decades of experience in agriculture are invaluable, and I have personally learned a lot from our discussions,” Dr. Kpaka said. “As a ministry, we are committed to translating these insights into practical solutions to accomplish the President’s vision for agricultural transformation.”
Dr. Kpaka further reiterated the government’s dedication to prioritize agriculture, ensuring that farmers have access to the necessary resources, technology, and training to increase productivity.
He noted that initiatives such as improved irrigation systems, mechanized farming, and access to quality seeds and fertilizers would be pivotal in driving growth in the sector.
The Feed Salone Initiative, which stands at the heart of the government’s agenda, aims to boost agricultural production, reduce dependence on food imports, and create sustainable livelihoods for Sierra Leoneans.
Desalegn’s visit and call for collaborative efforts come at a crucial time when Sierra Leone is looking to harness its agricultural potential for national growth.
His endorsement of the initiative reinforces the importance of stakeholder involvement, strategic investments, and policy-driven approaches in ensuring long-term food security and economic prosperity.
As Sierra Leone moves forward, the message from Desalegn is clear: the success of the Feed Salone Initiative will depend on the collective commitment of the government, farmers, private sector players, and development partners.
With the right partnerships and sustained efforts, Sierra Leone is well on its way to becoming a leading force in agricultural transformation in Africa.
