The Government of Sierra Leone has officially received 27,600 bags of 50 kg rice from the People’s Republic of China through the Chinese Emergency Food Assistance program. The handover ceremony took place on April 3, 2025, at the World Food Programme (WFP) Warehouse in Kissy Dock Yard, Freetown.
During the event, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Mr. Wang Qing, stated that this rice donation reflects China’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in achieving food sovereignty and economic growth. He noted that from 2018 to 2024, China has provided approximately 10,600 metric tons of rice to Sierra Leone, aiming to support the efforts of the smallholder farmers in increasing food production. Ambassador Qing emphasized that the China-Sierra Leone partnership has contributed not only to food production but also to infrastructure development. He highlighted projects such as the National Stadium, Youyi Building, China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, Wilberforce Barracks, and the Foreign Service Academy as part of this collaborative effort to improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), received the donation on behalf of the Sierra Leone people. He described the support as a generous contribution aimed at assisting the vulnerable populations in accessing food. This donation stemmed from a commitment made by the Chinese government during President Julius Maada Bio’s state visit to China last year. Dr. Kpaka announced that the full consignment had been received and that Cabinet has approved the allocation of 7,000 bags of 50kg to the Ministry of Fishery and Marine Resources to support registered artisanal fishing groups, with the remaining rice dedicated to the school feeding program for children across the country. He expressed gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for this support, noting that their relationship extends well beyond rice and has been in place for over 50 years.
Statements were also made by John Clements, Head of Supply Chain at WFP, Brima S.T. Kebbie, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Fishery and Marine Resources. An event chaired by Mr. Prince Cole, Senior Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
The ceremony concluded by signing a symbolic handover certificate, and a tour of the rice consignment.
