By: Saidu Jalloh
Minister Kpaka recently addressed misleading claims regarding the Chinese rice donations to Sierra Leone, providing clarification on the government’s receipt and distribution of the aid.
Minister Kpaka explained that in 2023, the government received a total of 1,114 metric tons (MT) of rice, equivalent to 22,280 bags, from China. This donation was allocated to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) to support the country’s school feeding programs, following approval from the Cabinet.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Chinese government has donated an additional 1,380 MT of rice, equivalent to 27,600 bags. To date, Sierra Leone has received 18,400 bags, which arrived in 40 containers in February and are securely stored in the World Food Programme (WFP) facility.
From the latest shipment, the Ministry of Agriculture has distributed 7,000 bags to the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources. The remaining rice will be transferred to the MBSSE for ongoing school feeding initiatives, as per Cabinet’s approval.
Minister Kpaka’s statement was aimed at dispelling any confusion surrounding the rice donations, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring that the aid is used for its intended purpose.