AYV News, March 21, 2025
Food security in Sierra Leone depends on increased agricultural productivity, reduced post-harvest losses, and efficient food distribution. The use of modern farm machinery such as tractors, combine harvesters, mechanized planters, irrigation systems, and processing units can significantly boost crop yields and reduce the time required for farming operations.
With these benefits of farm machines in agricultural production and productivity, one of Sierra Leone’s indigenous agriculture companies is leveraging the use of modern farm tools and equipment not only to boost cultivation of crops but also to create employment opportunities thereby addressing two key challenges in the country- food insecurity and unemployment among youths.
CEO of Sierratec Secure Sallieu Kanu confirmed that he has bought nine brand new machines and accessories to add to his fleet of tractors. He said that the nine tractors and accessories worth USD 310,000.
Before the procurement of the nine machines, Sierratec CEO intended to plough 2,000 hectares of farmland for rice production in Bombali District. But with the new machines, he has decided to expand beyond the initial target.
Mr. Kanu explained that agriculture remains the backbone of Sierra Leone’s economy, employing over 60% of the population. However, low productivity, post-harvest losses, and youth unemployment continue to hinder the sector’s full potential.
Therefore, he continued, the introduction and availability of modern farm machinery present a transformative opportunity to enhance food security, strengthen value chain development, and create employment opportunities for young people especially disadvantaged youths in farming communities.
“Mechanization extends beyond farming; it improves the entire agricultural value chain, from production to processing, storage, and marketing.” CEO Kanu is quoted to have said.
By enhancing value addition, mechanization boosts incomes for farmers, promotes agribusiness, and strengthens the entire agricultural ecosystem. He added.
Lots of smallholder farmers are finding it difficult to access farm machines like tractors, combine harvesters, and other implements to embark on extensive and sustainable farming. With the increase in the number of tractors, Sallieu Kanu assured that this set of farmers can now have access to hire machines to boost their production.
Sierra Leone faces a high youth unemployment rate, and the procurement of new machines has created job opportunities for 18 young people – added to the existing 50 youths being employed by the company already.
Mr. Kanu emphasized that, with proper investment in farm machineries and access to finance, passionate farmers like him can transform agriculture into a lucrative and sustainable sector.
Alhassan Kamara and Hassan Conteh are among youths who have gained employment from these newly purchased farm machines by Sierratec Secure. They expressed appreciation for the offer and stated that the opportunity has relieved them from the worries of unemployment.
They went on to say that working for an agriculture based company like Sierratec Secure has motivated them not only to be farm operators but also to active farmers. They promised to engage in farming activities going forward.
The availability of modern farm machinery in Sierra Leone has the potential to revolutionize agriculture by improving food security, enhancing value addition, and creating employment opportunities for young people. The “Feed Salone” agenda must take this into consideration if the country is to be food sufficient.
Sallieu Kanu encouraged government and partners to introduce the right policies, investments, and training programs backed by mechanization – as this can transform agriculture into a thriving sector that drives economic growth and sustains livelihoods across the country.
