By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a significant step toward enhancing agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of farmers across Sierra Leone, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has facilitated the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Socfin Agricultural Company (SOCFIN), the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), and representatives of the Sahn Malen community in Bonthe District, Southern Sierra Leone.
The trilateral agreement, signed on Saturday, August 30, 2025, aims to strengthen cooperation among the parties and address longstanding tensions surrounding large-scale palm oil production in the chiefdom.
According to government officials, the MoU sets out clear frameworks for promoting transparency, accountability, and the equitable distribution of benefits.
Dr. Sengeh who hails from Sahn Malen stated that the agreement was the result of extensive dialogue and consultations led by the Malen Development Committee (MDC), which comprises representatives from the community, the government, and SOCFIN.
He noted that the committee had convened in Sahn Malen, Bo, and Freetown to resolve disputes and reach common ground. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to boost agricultural development and improve the well-being of farming communities.
“We need a solution that works for SOCFIN, the people of Sahn Malen, and the Government of Sierra Leone to ensure that everyone benefits,” said the Chief Minister.
Dr. Sengeh emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue in resolving disputes and cautioned against allowing tensions to escalate into conflict.
The MoU provides for the establishment of strategic oversight mechanisms to promote sustainable agricultural growth and development throughout the region.
A representative from SOCFIN stated that the company remains committed to equal opportunity for all workers and, despite past challenges, is determined to maintain effective and efficient operations following the signing of the agreement.
“Despite the numerous challenges the company has faced in recent years, management remains committed to continuing full-scale operations in the Sahn Malen region,” the SOCFIN representative said.
Community leaders, including the area’s Member of Parliament and the Regent Chief of Sahn Malen, welcomed the development and praised both the government and SOCFIN for their efforts. They emphasized that the agreement would significantly benefit local residents through job creation and improved access to social services.
“The agreement, among other things, is expected to provide strategic support to the people of the community, including job creation, improved healthcare, education, and expanded social services throughout the Sahn Malen chiefdom,” officials noted.