Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio made a significant announcement on the first day of the 2023 African Investment Forum (AIF) Market Days by presenting an impressive $800 million rice industrial complex project.
The project aims to establish a fully integrated rice industrial complex in Sierra Leone, further bolstering the nation’s economic growth and food security.
During a boardroom session on Day 1 of the AIF Market Days, President Julius Maada Bio unveiled the visionary project, which is a cornerstone of the Sierra Leonean government’s flagship “Feed Salone” program. This ambitious endeavour has garnered attention and interest from both domestic and international stakeholders, making it a pivotal moment for the country’s economic development.
The President expressed his gratitude to the AIF Founding and Institutional Partners, which include the African Development Bank, Afrexim Bank, Africa 50, Africa Finance Corporation, Development Bank of Southern Africa, European Investment Bank, Islamic Development Bank, and Trade and Development Bank. These partners have played a crucial role in facilitating the presentation of this ground breaking initiative to a diverse audience, including private sector representatives, development finance institutions, and various regional and international organizations.
President Julius Maada Bio emphasized the importance of utilizing the AIF Marketplace platform to attract investments and collaborations that align with the strategic interests generated during the boardroom session. This project signifies Sierra Leone’s commitment to fostering economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and advancing the country’s agricultural sector through innovative and sustainable means. As Sierra Leone embarks on this exciting endeavour, the world will be watching closely to see how this ambitious rice industrial complex project unfolds in the heart of West Africa.
