In a significant development aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity and supporting farmers in Bombali District, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, and the National President of the National Federation of Farmers of Sierra Leone, Madam Yatta Samah, officially handed over assorted rice processing machines to the District Coordinator of the Federation of Farmers, Madam Kadija Bangura, on Friday, 17th May 2024.
The handover ceremony marked the transfer of essential agricultural equipment, including Rice Mills with a milling capacity of 4mt/day, Threshers, Weeders, Fertilizer Applicator Machines, Manual Rice Transplanters, Rice Dryers, and other vital resources needed for efficient rice production and processing in the district. These equipment are expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing agricultural productivity, improving efficiency in farming operations, and ultimately contributing to food security in the region.
During the handover ceremony, Minister Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka emphasized the importance of ensuring that the equipment reaches the actual beneficiaries – the hardworking farmers of Bombali District. He reiterated that these machines are part of the President’s initiative to boost agricultural production and provide support to farmers across Sierra Leone in line with the national goal of achieving food self-sufficiency.
In her remarks, National President Madam Yatta Samah expressed her gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture and the collaborative efforts that led to the procurement and distribution of the essential agricultural machinery. She highlighted the significance of empowering farmers with the right tools and resources needed to enhance their farming practices, increase yields, and improve their livelihoods.
District Coordinator Madam Kadija Bangura, who received the equipment on behalf of the Federation of Farmers in Bombali District, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Minister of Agriculture and the National President for their unwavering support and commitment to the agricultural sector. She assured them that the rice processing machines and accompanying tools would be utilized efficiently and effectively for their intended purposes, benefiting farmers and communities in the district.
Furthermore, District Agriculture Officer Lamin Mbogba commended the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Federation of Farmers for their collaborative efforts in providing the much-needed equipment to enhance agricultural activities in Bombali District. He pledged to oversee the proper monitoring and maintenance of the machines to ensure they function effectively and contribute to increased agricultural productivity and sustainable farming practices in the region.
The handover of rice processing machines and agricultural equipment to Bombali District represents a significant milestone in the collective efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector, empower farmers, and drive economic growth through enhanced food production. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers and fostering agricultural development as a core component of national progress and food security initiatives.
As the recipients prepare to put these valuable resources to good use, the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Federation of Farmers, and local agricultural stakeholders serve as a testament to the power of partnerships and shared dedication towards creating a more resilient and thriving agricultural sector in Sierra Leone.
The provision of essential rice processing machines to Bombali District sets a positive trajectory for sustainable agricultural practices, increased food production, and improved livelihoods for farmers, ultimately contributing to the overarching goal of feeding the nation and advancing agricultural sustainability across Sierra Leone.
The handover ceremony symbolizes a step forward in harnessing the potential of agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and food security, empowering farmers with the tools they need to succeed, and fostering a brighter future for rural communities in Bombali District and beyond.
