The EU Bus Tour 2025, led by Ambassador Jacek Jankowski, has visited the Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) project in the Matotoka community, Bombali District.
The project, funded by the EU and implemented by MADAM – Sierra Leone and partners, is helping farmers improve incomes and nutrition through innovation and value addition. More than 60% of the workforce in the processing facility are women, many of whom are leading new enterprises.
Community members shared how their lives have changed. Ya Kadie Sesay, head of the women’s association, said: “We no longer just farm and sell. We process into biscuits, paper, and more. Our homes are healthier, and our status has changed.”
Results of the Project
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Over 1,000 farmers empowered
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40 producer associations supported, including 612 women
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More than 120 hectares cultivated
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3 processing facilities built
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15 solar dryers and 20 vine preservation units installed
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Over 250 full-time jobs created
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4,554 vine bundles sold to WFP and BRAC
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Training in climate-smart farming, entrepreneurship, and savings groups
The project is part of the EU’s Agro-Tech support, reaching communities in Bombali, Tonkolili, and Kambia.
The OFSP is rich in Vitamin A and essential nutrients, making it an important crop for improving nutrition, food security, and resilience across Sierra Leone.
