In a pivotal address at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) headquarters in Ibadan, Nigeria, His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, underscored the multifaceted nature of food security, asserting that it transcends mere agricultural production. He articulated that food security is deeply intertwined with economic growth, public health, climate resilience, and national stability, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address these interconnected challenges.
Speaking before a diverse audience of stakeholders from across Africa, President Bio highlighted the systemic complexity of food security. He called for coordinated actions that span multiple sectors and stressed the importance of strong political will at the highest levels to forge sustainable solutions. “I firmly believe that research, innovation, and technology are the forces we must harness to drive Africa forward,” he declared, advocating for transformative strategies in agricultural development.
President Bio’s call for action included a push for stronger partnerships and strategic investments, as well as the rapid adoption of innovative solutions. He pointed out that these elements are vital not only for the prosperity of individual nations but also for the advancement of the entire African continent. His remarks came during a time when food security remains a pressing issue, exacerbated by challenges such as climate change, economic instability, and population growth.
The President’s visit to Nigeria aligns with his broader mission to gather expertise, innovation, and resources to establish a sustainable food system in Sierra Leone. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an environment where research leads to actionable solutions, technology drives progress, and investments generate real opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses.
Among the initiatives highlighted by President Bio was the Feed Salone Initiative, a flagship program aimed at transforming agriculture in Sierra Leone. He noted that agriculture is the backbone of the nation’s economy, employing over 70% of the workforce, with women constituting a significant majority. This initiative is poised to revolutionise the agricultural landscape, enhancing food security and economic stability in the country.
The Governor of Oyo State, Oluwaseyi Makinde, praised President Bio for his strong leadership and unwavering political commitment to agricultural transformation. He remarked, “The Feed Salone Initiative is one of the best agricultural projects in Africa and has the potential to significantly enhance food security across the continent.” His acknowledgement reflects the growing recognition of collaborative efforts in addressing food security challenges.
Dr. Simeon Ehui, the Director-General of IITA, expressed gratitude for President Bio’s visit, noting that Sierra Leone’s agricultural strategy offers valuable lessons for the broader African context. He emphasized that the event’s theme, “The Power of Improved Technology and Public-Private Partnerships to Accelerate the Feed Salone Strategy,” aligns seamlessly with IITA’s mission to foster agricultural innovation.
During his visit, President Bio and his delegation participated in a guided field tour, witnessing firsthand the groundbreaking work conducted by IITA over the past fifty years. They observed ongoing agricultural research and technological advancements that are crucial to enhancing food security in the region. Through these engagements, President Bio reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing innovative agricultural solutions that can transform food systems across Africa. He urged all stakeholders to adopt research-driven strategies and cultivate robust partnerships to create sustainable solutions to food security challenges on the continent.
