Njala University Leads Aquaculture Project with Oklahoma State University to Boost Food Security
By Ayuba Koroma
University Secretariat, Njala Campus – 26th May, 2025— Njala University and Oklahoma State University have today launched a significant project aimed at enhancing food security and nutrition through sustainable fish farming in Sierra Leone. Supported by the Milburn Foundation, the initiative is designed to provide high-protein food sources to vulnerable groups while creating employment and educational opportunities.
The project targets the annual production and distribution of 30 tons of fish, focusing on vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly. Dr. Josephus Borsuah, a Sierra Leonean scientist and senior research fellow at Oklahoma State University, emphasized the importance of turning academic knowledge into tangible impact, particularly for communities facing nutritional challenges.
Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma, Vice Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, described the administration as the driving force behind the project. He said the concept originated at Njala and was further developed through strategic collaboration with Oklahoma State. “The university,” he noted, “envisions empowering students to become graduate farmers and turning aquaculture into a community-driven economic opportunity.”
“The project includes plans to expand from 12 to 48 fish ponds and to produce fish feed locally, ensuring self-reliance and reducing the cost of aquaculture inputs. A facility is being prepared with equipment to manufacture fish meal for both community distribution and commercial use,” Prof. Koroma disclosed.
Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Mr. Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, welcomed the development, calling it a practical step toward achieving the government’s “Feed Salone” agenda. He praised the project’s alignment with national goals for food security, school feeding programs, and youth employment.
Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Haja Isata Abdulai Kamara, called the project “historic” and essential for reversing the damage caused by pollution and overfishing in Sierra Leone’s rivers. She confirmed the ministry’s support for inland aquaculture as a sustainable alternative.
Professor Karl Rich of Oklahoma State University, a principal investigator in the project, said the level of commitment from Njala University staff exceeded expectations. He highlighted the importance of the university’s enthusiasm and the project’s potential for long-term impact.
With research, training, and sustainability at its core, the Njala-Oklahoma partnership promises to transform rural nutrition and create new pathways for local youth through aquaculture-based employment and education.
Credit: Public Relations Unit, Njala University
