By Elizabeth Mamie Campbell
His Excellency Ambassador Salamu Koroma of the Republic of Sierra Leone this week hosted a high-level meeting with Mr. H.R. Farnia, CEO of ARTA AGROCHEM, and his delegation at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Tehran to discuss potential investment in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
ARTA AGROCHEM, a prominent agro-industrial firm operating in both Iran and China, specialises in the production and supply of advanced agricultural inputs, including hydrochemical fertilisers and pesticides sourced from reputable international brands. Since 2016, the company has also been engaged in cultivating, processing, and exporting premium Iranian agricultural products such as pistachios, saffron, dates, and frozen semi-prepared foods. With a strong global distribution network and a commitment to innovation, the company is now looking to expand its footprint into Africa.
Mr. Farnia expressed growing interest in Sierra Leone as a strategic gateway for agricultural development and trade in the region. He outlined plans to build partnerships with local importers, distributors, and agribusiness professionals, with a focus on improving crop yields and enhancing food security. The company also organises international agricultural exhibitions and extended an invitation to Ambassador Koroma to visit their facilities in Isfahan Province. A follow-up virtual meeting with agricultural stakeholders in Sierra Leone was also proposed.
Ambassador Koroma welcomed the initiative and commended ARTA AGROCHEM for choosing Sierra Leone as a potential investment destination. He highlighted the country’s agricultural potential—abundant rainfall, fertile land, youthful labour force, peaceful environment, efficient banking sector, and well-positioned seaport. He also noted that agriculture is a flagship priority for the government, particularly in increasing domestic rice production and expanding livestock farming.
He emphasised the need to move away from traditional subsistence farming toward mechanised, large-scale agriculture that can support national food self-sufficiency and regional trade. He invited the ARTA team to undertake a fact-finding visit to Sierra Leone and requested a detailed investment proposal, assuring them of the embassy’s full support in providing relevant information on the business climate, investment incentives, and legal framework.
Ambassador Koroma concluded by affirming Sierra Leone’s readiness to strengthen cooperation with Iran and international partners committed to sustainable agricultural development.
