Africell- Sierra Leone has successfully completed the colocation of seven broadcast sites nationwide for Rural Farmers Radio, the country’s first dedicated farmer-focused radio network. The initiative marks a significant step in supporting agricultural development, and aligns with the government’s Feed Salone Initiative.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Kpaka, expressed profound gratitude to Africell for making the project a reality. He described the initiative as ‘a great milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts towards achieving sustainable agricultural development and food security.’
Africell’s Chief Executive Officer, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized the company’s commitment to community empowerment through technology and communication. He noted that Africell is ‘excited about supporting a project which provides farmers with vital information on sustainable farming practices, thereby directly contributing to the Feed Salone agenda.”
Mr. Gerjawi further revealed that Africell has, for more than 11 years, been powering over 47 radio stations nationwide with round-the-clock electricity supply, underscoring the company’s longstanding investment in media and information access.
He also highlighted the enduring role of radio in Sierra Leone, stating that radio remains one of the most powerful tools for education, community development, and peacebuilding. “This initiative reminds us of the unique bond radio has with communities and how it can be used to educate, inform, and promote peace for a more developed society,” he added.
The launch of the Rural Farmers Radio Network represents a ground-breaking partnership between the private sector and government, bringing reliable agricultural information directly to farmers across the country, and is expected to enhance farmers’ knowledge, improve productivity, and strengthen rural development.
