AYV News, September 18, 2024
Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has warned against people bringing bad politics and tribalism into Agriculture, especially the Feed Salone Agenda.
The president successfully harvested 7 tonnes of fish and various agricultural produce from his farm in Mafintha, where he reveal the Agriculture is the bread basket for every country. He said politicising or bring tribalism into the sector is bad and will not make any progress.
This harvesting exercise aims to demonstrate the President’s commitment to leadership by example as he works diligently towards achieving the country’s Food Security Agenda.
While actively participating in the harvesting of fish, President Bio emphasised the importance of fish farming for all Sierra Leoneans, encouraging even small-scale investments in the sector. He highlighted that locally produced agricultural products are often more nutritious than imported alternatives.
The President urged citizens to actively support and patronize made-in-Sierra Leone products, emphasising that this would not only encourage local farmers but also enhance the economy by putting money into the pockets of those who work tirelessly to cultivate our land.
He stressed the importance of viewing agriculture as a viable business opportunity, noting that one does not need to be a professional agriculturist to engage in farming.
President Bio said: “I am involved in farming to inspire more Sierra Leoneans to consider agriculture seriously. The Feed Salone Initiative is a national program that we should all embrace, regardless of our political or regional affiliations.”
At the Poultry Section, the Poultry Consultant, Petemaa Sheriff shared that the President’s farm produces an impressive 7,600 eggs daily. Sheriff indicated plans to expand operations to further increase production. He noted that the farm utilizes locally produced feeds that are 100% organic, ensuring the quality of the eggs for every household.
Mr. Sheriff also highlighted that the farm offers technical services to citizens interested in fish, vegetable, and poultry farming. This includes producing local feeds, processing and packaging chicken, growing vegetables, raising small and large ruminants, and providing training for youth on poultry management.
A display of fresh farm products, including catfish, tilapia, pepper, eggs, potatoes and a variety of vegetables climaxed the event.