By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
Freetown, October 28, 2025 – At the inaugural Sierra Leone Agri-Food Investment Summit held at the New Brookfields Hotel, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio urged both international and local investors to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the country’s agriculture sector. He assured attendees of attractive tax incentives, transparent investment laws, and regulatory reforms designed to foster a modern, self-sufficient food economy.
Addressing over 25 international investors and 40 local companies, President Bio emphasized that agriculture is “the heartbeat of Sierra Leone’s economy.” He highlighted the nation’s vast potential, noting that of the 5.4 million hectares of arable land, less than 20 percent has yet to be cultivated. “We are strategically positioned to feed over 400 million consumers in West Africa,” he stated, underlining the importance of political leadership and policy consistency in achieving food sovereignty.
The President expressed his dedication to supporting serious investors, asserting that “every seed planted represents a promise to the farmer that his work is his future.” He framed the “Feed Salone” initiative not just as a program, but as a movement aimed at restoring national pride and self-sufficiency. “From our farms to our markets, we will feed ourselves and prosper,” he declared.
He called on investors to turn discussions into actionable steps that generate jobs, boost exports, and strengthen food systems, pointing out key sectors such as rice, cassava, poultry, livestock, cocoa, and coffee.
Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh praised President Bio’s leadership in promoting agricultural growth and industrialization, revealing that foreign direct investment commitments have exceeded US$2 billion, with interest rates plummeting from 40% to 15%.
Minister of Agriculture Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka noted that the summit serves to connect investors with local farmers, enhancing productivity and competitiveness. “We are making it easier to access land, do business, and profit. Sierra Leone means business now more than ever,” he affirmed.
Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, described agriculture as a key driver of macroeconomic stability and inclusive growth. “With Feed Salone and prudent macroeconomic reforms, our economy is positioned for robust growth,” he stated.
Mohamed Sow, Finance Director of PC Holdings Group, highlighted that the company has invested US$150 million into Sierra Leone’s agricultural projects over the past seven years, producing onions, maize, palm oil derivatives, and seasoning cubes, crediting President Bio’s support for their expansion.
The summit concluded with renewed commitments from government and private sector stakeholders to transform Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape through investment, innovation, and collaboration.
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