AYV News, April 30, 2025
On Sierra Leone’s 64th Independence Day, Amadu WurieBarrie, a master’s student in Software Engineering at NankaiUniversity, delivered an inspiring presentation at the China Ningjin Agricultural Machinery Expo.
Speaking to an audience of innovators and industry leaders, Barrie used the platform to highlight both Sierra Leone’s potential and its pressing agricultural challenges.
Barrie emphasized the urgent need for mechanization in Sierra Leone’s agriculture sector, where over 43% of the labor force depends on farming yet struggles with outdated tools and costly imports. In 2023 alone, Sierra Leone spent about $150 million importing rice—a stark reminder of missed opportunities. He passionately described Feed Salone, a government initiative aimed at revitalizing local cultivation, as a critical step toward reclaiming national dignity and food security.
Drawing from his studies in smart agriculture, Barrie envisions a future where AI, drones, and solar-powered machinery transform farming into a badge of progress rather than a burden. He called for collaboration with China, stressing that development must be rooted in ownership and innovation tailored to Sierra Leone’s terrain.
His speech resonated deeply, portraying Sierra Leonean students as proactive ambassadors driving change beyond borders. Barrie’s message underscored not only the importance of technological advancement but also the moral imperative to empower farmers who hold the key to their nation’s prosperity.
By blending patriotism with practical solutions, Barrie exemplifies how young Sierra Leoneans are bridging global partnerships to sow seeds of transformation back home.
