By Abubakerr Kargbo
The National Federation of Farmers of Sierra Leone (NaFFSL) has lauded the government for its proactive steps in providing 30,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers across all 15 districts of the country. This initiative, aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity and supporting the ‘Feed Salone’ Initiative, signifies a collaborative effort between the government, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and farmers nationwide to enhance food security and economic growth.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security recently showcased its commitment to supporting farmers by officially launching the distribution of fertilizer for the upcoming planting season. The event, held on August 10, 2024, at the Agricultural Stores in Kissy, highlighted the importance of ensuring that farmers have access to vital agricultural inputs such as fertilizer to optimize crop yield and contribute to national food security.
Arthur Durotimi Roberts, the Storekeeper at the Agriculture Ministry Stores, emphasized the pivotal role of the ministry in managing the storage and distribution of agricultural resources, including machinery, seeds, and fertilizer. He underscored the collaborative efforts with various stakeholders to facilitate the efficient distribution of fertilizer to different regions across Sierra Leone, a critical process in supporting farmers to achieve successful harvests each planting season.
As part of the ongoing distribution endeavors that commenced on August 5, 2024, the ministry disclosed that a total of 30,000 bags of fertilizer are being dispatched to reach farmers in all 15 districts of the country. This strategic initiative aims to provide farmers with essential inputs to boost agricultural productivity and promote sustainable farming practices for long-term food security.
Yatta Samah, the National President of the National Farmers Federation, expressed enthusiasm about the fertilizer distribution program, hailing it as a significant milestone for the Feed Salone Initiative championed by the government. She stressed the importance of increasing agricultural yields to bolster food production and economic progress in Sierra Leone. The federation is actively engaged in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry to monitor the distribution process and ensure that farmers at the grassroots level receive the fertilizer effectively.
With an estimated 68,000 registered farmers nationwide, the Farmers Federation is strategically prioritizing the allocation of fertilizer to benefit those most in need, particularly small-scale farmers facing challenges in accessing agricultural inputs due to financial constraints. The distribution strategy entails delivering fertilizer to district levels, cascading down to chiefdoms, and reaching individual beneficiaries in all 15 districts across the country.
Safinatu Bockarie, the Farmers Federation District Coordinator for Kenema District, expressed gratitude to the Agriculture Ministry for making fertilizer readily available to farmers. She acknowledged that limited access to fertilizer had posed significant obstacles for many farmers in the past, impeding their farming activities and curtailing crop yields. The timely distribution of fertilizer this year has alleviated these challenges, enabling more farmers to engage in agriculture with the promise of improved harvests.
Haja Kaday Sheriff, the District Coordinator for Koinadugu District, echoed sentiments of appreciation towards the government and the Farmers Federation for their unwavering support in ensuring the timely supply of fertilizer to farmers in the region. With approximately 15,000 farmers under their jurisdiction, Koinadugu District anticipates a prosperous harvest season, thanks to the provision of critical agricultural inputs that will elevate crop production and livelihoods in the locality.
The cooperative efforts between the Ministry of Agriculture, the Farmers Federation, and other stakeholders exemplify a shared dedication to empowering farmers, enhancing agricultural productivity, and reinforcing food security in Sierra Leone. By making fertilizer more accessible to farmers across all districts, the government aims to stimulate agricultural growth, raise food production levels, and ultimately contribute to the economic development and well-being of the nation’s populace.
The provision of 30,000 bags of fertilizer by the government in collaboration with the Farmers Federation signifies a significant stride towards achieving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture in Sierra Leone. The collective commitment displayed by all stakeholders underscores the importance of fostering partnerships to address agricultural challenges, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and advance the nation’s agricultural sector. The distribution of fertilizer is not only a crucial step in supporting farmers but also a testament to the government’s dedication to agricultural development and the welfare of its citizens.
