Freetown, Sierra Leone – January 23, 2024 – A landmark partnership between the China Rice Research Institute (CRRI) and Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) was announced today January 23, 2024, aiming to boost rice production and enhance food security in the West African nation.
This collaboration stems from the official visit of Sierra Leone’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, to China recently.
Minister Kpaka’s tour of research facilities and seed production sites in China paved the way for discussions that led to the formalization of this joint initiative. The partnership will leverage CRRI’s expertise, research capabilities, and technological advancements in rice cultivation to benefit Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
Huamin Chang, President of the Huber Seed Association and Senior Agronomist at CRRI, outlined the collaboration’s key areas of focus:
Crop Improvement: Developing high-yielding and resilient rice varieties suited to Sierra Leone’s specific climate and soil conditions.
Sustainable Farming Practices: Implementing techniques for efficient water management, soil health improvement, and pest control.
Knowledge Sharing: Conducting joint research projects, training programs for agricultural professionals, and exchanging best practices including technologies in rice cultivation.
“This collaboration has the potential to significantly impact food security and economic development in Sierra Leone,” Chang emphasized. “We are committed to working closely with the Ministry to achieve these goals and contribute to the well-being of the nation.”
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security II, Sahr Hemore, warmly welcomed the CRRI and Huber team to Sierra Leone and expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership.
He highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges related to food production and agriculture.
“This collaboration signifies our commitment to fostering strong ties between nations and leveraging collective expertise to build sustainable and resilient agricultural systems,” stated Mr. Hemore. “We are confident that this partnership will yield positive outcomes for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, contributing to our nation’s food self-sufficiency and economic growth.”
The CRRI and Huber team together with the Ministry will embark on field visits to potential areas for collaboration, laying the groundwork for a fruitful and impactful partnership.
For More Enquiries, please visit:
Agricultural Information and Communications Unit
www.maf.gov.sl or www.feedsalone.gov.sl
076722772
