By Kemoh Saidu Sesay
Sierra Leone is battling with severe food insecurity, threatening the health and well-being of its citizens. With the uncontrollable hike in food prices, poor weather conditions and inadequate agricultural infrastructure, this situation is alarming.
According to the World Food Programme’s (WFP) last bi-annual post-harvest Food Security Monitoring System (FSMS) assessment, 82.3 per cent of Sierra Leoneans were food insecure in 2024, a steady increase compared to the 80 per cent figure from the same period in 2023.
The nation is in a food crisis, which not only endangers the health and livelihoods of Sierra Leoneans but also requires the undivided attention of the government and its development partners to forge a comprehensive road map in addressing this crisis. There has been a lot of political spin on the sufferings of the masses over the first year of President Julius Maada Bio’s second term in office, just like his first term. It’s about time the President and his political hallelujah boys and girls prioritise the nation’s interest by addressing the long list of concerns.
The impact of food insecurity is far-reaching. Malnutrition rates are alarmingly high, especially among children and pregnant women. WFP has highlighted that one in three children under five (about 26.2%) in Sierra Leone is stunted, reflecting chronic malnutrition. This not only affects physical health but also hampers cognitive development, perpetuating an unending cycle of poverty and underdevelopment.
For many Sierra Leoneans, food accounts for a significant portion of household expenditure. As prices soar unimaginably, families are forced to make tough choices, often cutting back on essential items or resorting to less nutritious alternatives. This economic tight-lipped decision undermines overall quality of life and threatens long-term economic stability.
Farmers, who form the backbone of the country’s food supply, are among the hardest hit. Lack of access to modern farming tools, quality seeds, and fertilisers limits their productivity. Additionally, poor infrastructure impedes the transport of goods, leading to significant post-harvest losses.
Tackling food insecurity in Sierra Leone is crucial in meeting every other development target. At this point, the government is expected to prioritise investment in agricultural development, focusing on sustainable farming practices, improved infrastructure, and access to agricultural inputs. All energies diverted to politicking should be cut short and focused on addressing the food insecurity crisis in the country.
Moreover, social protection programs must be expanded to support the most vulnerable populations. Initiatives such as school feeding programs, targeted nutritional support for pregnant women, lactating mothers and children under 5, and emergency food aid can provide immediate relief.
Food insecurity is not just a rural issue; it is a national crisis that demands a unified response. We all must recognise the profound gravity of the situation and contribute to the solution. Whether through volunteer efforts, advocacy, or simply supporting local farmers, every action counts; but it starts with the government when they start seeing the need to address the issues they were voted for. We must work together to ensure that every Sierra Leonean has access to sufficient, nutritious food. Our collective future depends on it.
