By: Joseph Momoh, Reporter
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has announced a significant investment of $12 million to support the establishment of Sierra Leone’s first commercial-scale onion farming operation in partnership with Pee Cee Holding Ltd. (PCH). This funding is poised to transform the agricultural landscape of the country, enhance local food production, and reduce reliance on imported onions.
The investment will be directed to Pee Cee Agriculture (PCA), the agribusiness subsidiary of PCH, for the development of a fully irrigated and mechanized 500-hectare farm. The facility is expected to produce over 40,000 tons of onions annually, along with other vital crops such as maize and potatoes. Designed for year-round operation, the project integrates precision irrigation technology, modern machinery, and advanced storage systems to minimize post-harvest losses and improve supply chain efficiency.
“This investment is a game-changer for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector,” said Mahesh Nandwani, CEO of PCH. “With IFC’s support, we are demonstrating that high-quality, large-scale food production is achievable within the country—creating a model for food security, job creation, and long-term sustainability.”
This project comes at a crucial time for Sierra Leone, where most onions and several key staples are still imported. By bolstering domestic production, the initiative aims to increase food accessibility and affordability while providing employment and skills training opportunities, particularly for rural women.
In addition to financing, the IFC has been instrumental in developing PCA’s operational model over the past four years. The partnership included technical advisory support to enhance operational efficiency, environmental performance, and risk mitigation strategies. Pilot programs led by IFC have shown remarkable results, with onion yields increasing tenfold compared to national averages.
“Investing in sustainable agriculture is vital for building economic resilience and reducing import dependency,” stated Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa. “This partnership with PCH sets a new standard for commercial farming in Sierra Leone and the wider region.”
PCH, which began as Pee Cee & Sons, has evolved into one of Sierra Leone’s leading consumer goods companies, leveraging its extensive distribution network to ensure local market access for the farm’s products. With subsidiaries like Milla Group and Jolaks Manufacturing, PCH has already showcased its capacity for industrial innovation and market leadership.
This agricultural venture represents a strategic expansion for the group, focusing on climate-smart farming, food system resilience, and community impact. It aligns with the IFC’s broader objectives of promoting inclusive private sector development across Africa.
With construction already in progress and a solid foundation established, the PCA project is anticipated to serve as a model for future agricultural investments in West Africa, delivering sustainable value to farmers, consumers, and the economy at large.
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