Sierra Leone Secures Coffee Investment Partnership at Marrakech Forum

Sierra Leone Secures Coffee Investment Partnership at Marrakech Forum

The Republic of Sierra Leone has significantly advanced its strategic objectives for agricultural investment and trade, culminating in the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with African Coffee Hub Invest. This agreement was finalized during the Regional Forum on Coffee Value Chain Development in Africa, hosted in Marrakech, Morocco.

The forum, conducted from May 5th to 6th, 2026, convened leading coffee-producing nations across the African continent. The primary objective was to collaboratively transition the African coffee sector from a conventional raw commodity export model to a globally competitive, value-added industry. Key thematic discussions centered on enhancing quality assurance, processing methodologies, traceability, investment mobilization, and securing expanded access to international markets.

The prestigious event was jointly organized by the Islamic Development Bank, the Kingdom of Morocco, the African Coffee Hub, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Attendance included government representatives, development finance institutions, private sector stakeholders, and distinguished industry experts.

Sierra Leone’s official delegation was spearheaded by Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, accompanied by Kadiatu Allie, Deputy Minister I of Finance.

During the proceedings, Minister Kpaka reiterated the nation's unwavering commitment to the comprehensive revitalization of its coffee industry. This strategy focuses on increasing production, maximizing value addition, and broadening market reach, with a specialized emphasis on premium specialty varieties such as Stenophylla coffee, lauded for its inherent quality and environmental resilience.

Deputy Minister Allie provided an overview of governmental initiatives under the "Feed Salone Programme." She specifically underscored that ongoing fiscal reforms are strategically designed to enhance farmers' access to essential financial resources and stimulate sustained agricultural growth.