Dr. Alfred Seawright, one of Sierra Leone trusted investors has expressed commitment to President Julius Maada Bio’s flagship program “Feed Salone” to boost agriculture productivity in fuelling inclusive growth, increase local food production and reduce dependence on food.
Dr. Seawright, a prominent private-sector investor, has emerged as a key player in Sierra Leone’s journey towards food security. His dedication to integrate green energy, clean environment practices, and holistic food production strategies aligns with the government’s vision for sustainable development is visible in the country.
Recently, Dr. Seawright’s sponsored another sub-regional team to China which is a clear manifestation of his commitment to exploring innovative solutions across various sectors, including agro-food production and waste management.
One of the cornerstones of Dr. Seawright’s investment in food security is his plan to establish two mega fish feed plants in Kono and Bo respectively.
These facilities, according to the head of a six-man delegation to China, Dr. Matthew D. Kpundeh, head of Department for Aquaclture and Fisheries Management who is the Technical Coordinator for Dr. Seswright RAS, it will address the pressing need for quality fish feed, supporting local fish farmers and enhancing aquaculture productivity in Sierra Leone and neighbouring countries like Guinea and Liberia.
The six-man delegation visited different feed meals in different provinces in China to ensure that they get the best for Sierra Leone climate.
Dr. Matthew Kpundeh stated that beyond economic benefits, these ventures are poised to create thousands of jobs and stimulate local and international investment in the region.
He went on to emphasize that Dr. Seawright’s approach to food security extends beyond production to encompass the entire value chain; from eco-labeling and traceability to community-focused management practices.
“His investments prioritize sustainability and social impact. By empowering local communities and leveraging Africa’s vast resources, Dr. Seawright believes that food security can be achieved not only in Sierra Leone but across the continent.”
Sierra Leone, like many other nations in sub-Saharan Africa, has grappled with food security challenges for decades. Sierra Leone has faced significant obstacles in achieving food security. Factors such as poverty, limited access to modern agricultural technologies, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation have hindered agricultural productivity and food distribution systems. These challenges have left many Sierra Leoneans vulnerable to food insecurity, with a significant portion of the population lacking access to nutritious and affordable food.
However, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, the country is witnessing a renewed commitment to addressing these issues through innovative strategies and partnerships.
At the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown on Thursday 5th October 2023, President Julius Maada Bio engaged development partners and stakeholders in the agricultural sector, where he said his government’s focus on human capital development to drive sustainable growth in the country, “we are prioritizing investment in agriculture through the Feed Salone Programme.”
The programme will ignite agricultural productivity, safeguard food security and foster inclusive economic growth, laying the foundation for sustainable prosperity.
“We enacted sound public policies to stimulate sound private sector investments,” President Bio said.
The government primarily focused on de-risking the investment space while supporting the enabling environment for private sector players to participate.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, is the collaboration with passionate individuals like Dr. Alfred Seawright, whose commitment to delivering on the food security agenda is evident through his multifaceted approach.
In a telephone conversation, Dr. Alfred Seawright stated that “101 at its best, trying to make the world a better place. Teaching 101 everyone who can do what you can to make the world a better place, it’s not about what you can do for yourself but how can you help someone else.101.”
“The road to food security in Sierra Leone requires a collaborative effort that combines government leadership, private sector investment, and community engagement. President Julius Maada Bio’s Feed Salone initiative, alongside Dr. Alfred Seawright’s visionary investments, exemplifies this holistic approach, as Sierra Leone continues on this path, guided by a shared commitment to sustainability and prosperity, the prospects for a more food-secure future appear increasingly promising,” Dr. Matthew Kpundeh stated.
