By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio visited Demoss Farm, owned by Steven Kuiper, to explore agricultural advancements during the peak of the corn harvest.
The visit underscored the importance of mechanization in modern farming practices and its potential benefits for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
During his tour of the 80-acre farm, President Bio admired Kuiper’s innovative methods, which have significantly boosted productivity.
This engagement is part of Bio’s broader initiative, the “Feed Salone” agenda, which aims to transform Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape. Iowa’s expertise in high-yield crop farming is essential as Sierra Leone seeks to enhance local food production and reduce import dependence.
“Iowa is critical in our drive to deliver on our Feed Salone agenda,” President Bio stated. The initiative focuses on fostering inclusive growth, combating hunger, and developing a resilient food system, all while creating job opportunities and increasing export revenues.
The visit also served as a platform for Bio to foster partnerships with Iowa’s agricultural leaders. He expressed gratitude to Iowa Corn’s leadership for their support and emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable agricultural development in Sierra Leone.
Bio’s discussions with Kuiper and other local farmers highlighted shared challenges and opportunities in agriculture, reinforcing the potential for knowledge exchange between the two regions.
In addition, as part of his vision, Bio aims to mobilize expertise and resources to transform Sierra Leone’s arable lands into high-yield crop farms, ultimately improving food security and economic stability.
The President’s engagement in Iowa marks a significant step toward establishing a sustainable agricultural partnership. The partnership aims to bring innovative practices back to Sierra Leone, thereby enhancing the livelihoods of local farmers and the overall economy.