Former Chief Minister Professor David Francis EcoRice Hits Sierra Leone Market

In a significant stride towards enhancing food security and economic growth, the EcoRice Production Company Ltd., founded and owned by the distinguished Former Chief Minister and Foreign Affairs, Professor David John Francis, has yesterday launched its highly anticipated 2023 “Hard-up” rice sales campaign.

This venture aims to provide the public with access to locally produced, nutritionally rich rice, offered in both 50kg and 10kg packaging, at affordable prices.

The official sales launch took place at two prominent locations: the Blama Centre and Ahmadiyya Junction in Kenema. Shoppers had the opportunity to purchase a 50kg bag of rice for NLe 600, or opt for a 10kg bag at NLe 120.

Hailing from Ngovokpahun village in the Small Bo Chiefdom of Kenema District, situated in the Eastern Region of Sierra Leone, the EcoRice Production Company operates under Professor David John Francis’s visionary leadership. Notably, Professor Francis, during his tenure as the Chief Minister of the Republic of Sierra Leone, earned distinction for being the first minister to execute President Doctor Julius Maada Bio’s directive by embarking on large-scale farming initiatives.

Recalling a notable achievement, the EcoRice Production Company previously harvested and packaged rice from 444 acres of farmland. This bounty was made accessible to the public at affordable prices, contributing to the region’s food security.

Professor Francis emphasized that this achievement underscores Sierra Leone’s potential to achieve self-sufficiency in food production.

In alignment with President Bio’s strategic agenda to bolster the nation’s food production and diminish reliance on imports, the EcoRice Production Company is fervently committed to advancing the agricultural sector. The company’s efforts extend beyond rice cultivation, encompassing diverse crops such as guava, pineapple, and other medicinally and economically valuable plants.

Remarkably, the EcoRice Company has emerged as a pioneer in mechanized farming within Sierra Leone. Its state-of-the-art rice milling machine stands as a testament to its dedication to modernizing the agricultural landscape. The company’s impact is not confined to its operations; it has also extended technical assistance and machinery support to fellow farmers, significantly contributing to the proliferation of large-scale farming endeavors.

Professor Francis’s ambitious vision includes nurturing the country’s human capital through student engagement on his farm.

He proudly highlighted the involvement of intern students from Njala and Eastern Technical Universities, who actively participate in the EcoRice company’s seed nursing activities. This educational initiative aims to foster practical skills and knowledge while promoting agricultural development.

A distinguishing feature of the EcoRice Production Company’s workforce is the integral role played by women. In addition to their contributions as laborers, women operate machinery, exemplifying the company’s commitment to gender-inclusive agricultural practices.

With unwavering determination, Professor David John Francis aspires to position EcoRice as Sierra Leone’s premier organic rice brand, marked by accessibility and affordability. His dedication to promoting agricultural excellence, student involvement, and sustainable practices underscores his pivotal role in driving Sierra Leone’s journey toward self-sufficiency and prosperity.