By: Aminata Sesay
As Sierra Leone prepares to mark World Food Day and celebrate two years of the Feed Salone initiative, local farmers and agribusinesses are showcasing how innovation and growth are reshaping the nation’s food security landscape. Poultry farming, in particular, has emerged as a key pillar in the effort to reduce import dependence and create jobs for Sierra Leoneans.
Newton Poultry, a third-generation family enterprise, is on the verge of launching its most ambitious project to date a state-of-the-art layer farm set to begin operations by the end of October. With over 22,000 birds expected to produce 20,000 to 21,000 eggs daily, and plans to triple that capacity in the future, Newton is positioning itself as a leading player in helping Sierra Leone achieve greater self-sufficiency in egg production.
Another key player in the sector, Leecon Poultry, has steadily expanded since its founding in 2002. The company now manages more than 60,000 birds across various facilities in the Western Area, with plans to extend its reach into Bombali, Port Loko, Koinadugu, and Kono. Its Makeni hatchery, the largest in the country, currently produces 10,000 chicks each week, with plans to scale up to 90,000 chicks with support from both government and international partners. Beyond increasing production, Leecon also provides employment to over 100 Sierra Leoneans, highlighting the sector’s significant potential for rural job creation and skills development.
While these agribusinesses are pushing the boundaries of production, the success of the Feed Salone initiative also relies heavily on frontline agricultural staff. District agriculture offices and local volunteers play a crucial role in supporting smallholder farmers, monitoring projects, and ensuring that the Feed Salone initiative delivers tangible impact at the community level.
The nationwide progress reflects the broader vision behind Feed Salone: to harness Sierra Leone’s land, labor, and local enterprises to feed the nation, strengthen rural livelihoods, and transform agriculture from a subsistence activity into a driving force for economic growth.
