Prospects for Agriculture continue to be optimistic for 2014

Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector is starting the new year 2014 in an optimistic mood, with an upward trend in empowering both large and small scale farmers for sustainable economic growth. In addition to the tremendous gains made in the sector and its contribution to the country’s development agenda over the years, the ministry is set to make the largest agricultural investment amounting to 1.3 billion dollars, commencing early this year.  (Photo: Agriculture Minister, Dr. Joseph Sam Sesay )

The Minister, Dr. Joseph Sam Sesay, disclosed to this writer during his recent participation at the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA), held during the International Green Week in Berlin, Germany. According to the Minister, the investment is a joint venture between four Chinese companies and the Sierra Leone government. It will cultivate 100,000 hectares of rubber, 35,000 hectares of irrigated large scale rice production in Moyamba, Tonkolili and Port Loko district respectively.

The project will be implemented by both small and large scale farmers in an effort to ensure that production of raw materials is done not only by large investment companies but also enables local farmers to undertake improved food production, processing and marketing activities across the country.