By Saidu Jalloh, D.S. Reporter
Kambia, October 31, 2025 – President Dr. Julius Maada Bio celebrated the second anniversary of the Feed Salone initiative on World Food Day, bringing together farmers, traditional leaders, and international partners at Kambia Mini Stadium. The event was centered around the global theme: “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future.”
During the ceremony, President Bio presented the Two-Year Feed Salone Progress Report, recognizing the collective efforts of farmers, paramount chiefs, and development partners in advancing Sierra Leone’s goal of food self-sufficiency. He highlighted agriculture as “the heartbeat of our nation” and noted that the Feed Salone program is pivotal in transforming farming practices from subsistence to prosperity, fostering dignity and innovation.
Reflecting on his personal ties to agriculture, President Bio recalled how farming sustained his family during his childhood, symbolizing sacrifice and love. “Two years ago, we launched Feed Salone with a clear message: Grow What We Eat and Eat What We Grow. Today, we see rising rice production, declining imports, and increased availability of local food,” he stated.
In a significant announcement, the President unveiled a $105 million Livestock and Livelihood Development Project, backed by the Islamic Development Bank, IFAD, and the OPEC Fund. This initiative aims to enhance poultry and cattle farming, improve feed production, and elevate rural incomes in Kambia, Port Loko, and Bombali Districts.
Additionally, President Bio introduced Rural Farmers Radio 98.9 FM, a new platform designed to disseminate agricultural information and foster community engagement among farmers.
Reiterating the importance of the Feed Salone initiative, the President emphasized its role in his government’s Big Five Game Changers, aimed at creating a productive, competitive, and peaceful Sierra Leone. “In Kambia, blessed with fertile soil and resilient people, we are laying the groundwork for national food security and prosperity. Every Sierra Leonean has a part to play in Feed Salone,” he declared.
Mr. Omar Davis, Country Operations Manager of the Islamic Development Bank, praised Sierra Leone’s agricultural advancements and the robust partnership with the bank, which has seen over $500 million in cumulative approvals, with $255 million currently active. “The approvals in the past five years alone surpass those made in nearly six decades prior to 2020, reflecting growing confidence in Sierra Leone’s reforms,” Davis noted.
The event concluded with the presentation of the Feed Salone two-year report and a celebration of the contributions made by farmers and local leaders throughout the country.
For more information, contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.
