'Feed Salone' Agenda Boosted with $5.6M Korean Grant for Rice Development

'Feed Salone' Agenda Boosted with $5.6M Korean Grant for Rice Development

Sierra Leone has officially secured a $5.6 million grant from the Government of the Republic of Korea, a significant investment aimed at transforming the nation’s rice production capabilities and strengthening the agricultural value chain.

The agreement, formalised through a signed Record of Discussions, paves the way for the "Development of Africa Rice Cultivation Complex" project. This five-year initiative, running from 2026 to 2030, will be based in Rokupr, Kambia District, and is designed to tackle persistent challenges in the rice sector through modern infrastructure and enhanced technical support.

The signing ceremony featured key government officials, including the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, and the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Kenyeh Barlay, who were joined by representatives from the Korean government.

Outlining the project's technical goals, Minister Kpaka explained that the funding is targeted at upgrading critical infrastructure.

"It will establish a modern rice seed production complex, improve irrigation and seed-processing infrastructure, provide agricultural machinery, and build the capacity of farmers, researchers, and government personnel," Minister Kpaka stated. 

He emphasized that the initiative is essential for strengthening access to quality seeds and modern farming technologies necessary to drive productivity gains for local farmers.

Minister Barlay highlighted that the investment is a crucial component of the government's "Feed Salone" agenda, which aims to increase domestic food production while reducing the country's reliance on costly food imports. 

"We cannot reduce rice imports if we do not invest in the sector," she said. "The Government is deliberate in ensuring that we reduce rice imports and make rice affordable for everyone".

Beyond infrastructure, the project aims to establish improved rice seed production systems and provide practical training for researchers and government staff. 

By reducing production costs and improving yields, the government expects to build a more resilient agricultural sector that offers greater economic opportunities for farmers and supports long-term food security across Sierra Leone.