AYV News, August 4, 2023

Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi has said government will be importing onions in few weeks.

He highlighted government’s commitment to tackle the ongoing onion shortage and achieve food self-sufficiency.

Speaking on Wake Up Salone show on AYV TV, he drew inspiration from Vietnam’s success story, where they transitioned from being net importers to exporting food globally. He added that Sierra Leone sees great potential in its abundant natural resources and fertile land.

Sandi noted that President Bio’s Big Five Game Changer prioritizes the goal of feeding the nation, recognising the importance of utilising the country’s agricultural potential to provide for its people.

With an emphasis on onions, which currently present a significant challenge, he said the government has made it a top priority and is actively taking steps to address the situation.

The deputy minister said despite the current hurdles, the government is taking proactive measures to alleviate the shortage.

He noted that the Minister of Trade has announced upcoming importation of onions in the next few weeks to ensure a stable food supply while efforts to enhance domestic production are underway.

Sandi said that the government’s ambitious vision is underscored by the implementation of the ‘Feed Salone Initiative.’

According to him, this initiative seeks to harness the expertise of both seasoned and young leaders, including the appointment of Henry Musa Kpaka as the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security and Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, a distinguished expert, to support President Bio’s agricultural vision.