By: Mohamed J. Bangura
Sierra Leone is targeting an increase in rice cultivation this year after approximately 600,000 hectares were cultivated last year, as the Ministry of Agriculture steps up efforts to boost food production and expand support for farmers.
Alpha Yayah Mansaray, Director of Extension at the Ministry of Agriculture, disclosed this during an appearance on AYV Media’s Wake Up Sierra Leone programme, where he discussed progress in rice, cassava and poultry production.
According to Mansaray, the country expects to surpass last year’s rice cultivation figure as the government intensifies efforts to increase domestic food production and improve food availability.
“We cultivated 600,000 hectares of rice last year, and we expect to surpass that this year,” Mansaray said.
Rice is a major staple in Sierra Leone, and increasing local production is considered essential to strengthening food security and reducing reliance on imported rice.
Mansaray also highlighted progress in cassava and poultry production, noting growing public interest in the availability of locally produced food in markets.
“We are making progress in rice, cassava and poultry production. The conversation is changing, with growing public interest in seeing these products available in the market,” he stated.
He said expanding production beyond rice to include other essential food commodities could help diversify the country’s food supply, create opportunities for farmers and improve access to locally produced food.
The Ministry’s efforts also focus on increasing domestic production to meet demand and strengthening connections between farmers and markets.
Mansaray further disclosed that the Ministry of Agriculture supported more than 30,000 farmers last year and is targeting an increase in the number of beneficiaries this year.
“Last year, the Ministry of Agriculture supported over 30,000 farmers, and we are targeting more than 30,000 this year, pending final figures,” he said.
He explained that the final figures for this year’s farmer support programme were still being determined.
Expanding support for farmers is expected to contribute to increased agricultural production and improved food availability. However, achieving these objectives will depend on sustained assistance, access to agricultural inputs and stronger market linkages to help farmers sell their produce.
Mansaray’s remarks highlight the Ministry’s expectations for increased rice cultivation and its plans to reach more farmers as Sierra Leone continues its drive towards greater food self-sufficiency.
The final figures for rice cultivation and farmer support will provide a clearer indication of the country’s progress towards these targets as the agricultural season advances.