On the sidelines of the Africa Food Systems Forum (#AFSForum2024) in Kigali, Agriculture Ministers from Sierra Leone and Rwanda marked a significant milestone by signing a Ministerial Statement on behalf of the Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation (ACF). This collaboration underscores the growing commitment of African nations to drive sustainable food systems and agricultural development across the continent.
Representing Sierra Leone, Agricultural Minister Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka emphasized the nation’s focus on food security and agricultural reform. During his address, he highlighted the pressing need for enhanced rice production, as the country consumes a substantial 131 kilograms of rice per person annually. Sierra Leone is taking proactive steps to meet domestic demand, with the Tormabum Rice Industrial Complex being a key project aimed at bolstering rice production capacity.
Minister Kpaka announced that while the Tormabum Rice Industrial Complex requires a total investment of $800 million for completion, $480 million has already been secured. He expressed optimism about the project’s potential, stating, “We are confident that this investment will deliver significant returns, cutting our reliance on rice imports by up to 75% and paving the way for increased food self-sufficiency in Sierra Leone.”
The signing of the Ministerial Statement by both Sierra Leone and Rwanda at the AFS Forum reaffirms the commitment of these founding members of the ACF to lead the charge in transforming Africa’s food systems. This initiative is geared towards promoting sustainable agricultural practices, fostering innovation, and strengthening food security across the continent.
Rwanda’s Agriculture Minister, [Minister’s Name], commended the growing partnership between African nations, stating that this collaborative effort will help address key challenges in food systems and agriculture while supporting economic growth.
The Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation is dedicated to advancing initiatives that tackle hunger, enhance productivity, and promote environmental sustainability. With significant projects like the Tormabum Rice Industrial Complex and collaborative agreements like the ACF Ministerial Statement, Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a leader in food systems transformation in West Africa.
The forum in Kigali provided a platform for leaders to share insights, mobilize resources, and forge alliances that will ensure a sustainable future for Africa’s food systems.
As Sierra Leone moves forward with its ambitious agricultural reforms, the nation is set to become more self-reliant, reduce its import dependence, and contribute to broader efforts for food security across the continent.
