Regional Rice Value Chain Project -MAF

Efforts to Strengthen Sierra Leone's Seed System: Regional Rice Value Chain Project Partners with Key Institutions

In a strategic move to bolster the seed sector, the Regional Rice Value Chain Project in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on Tuesday 30th July , 2024 engaged with the Seed Multiplication Programme (SMP) and the Sierra Leone Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCA). The meeting, held in Bo city , focused on enhancing seed multiplication and certification processes, crucial components for the country's rice production improvement.

The gathering aimed to assess the implementation progress under Component C, "Fostering Enabling Policy and Institutional Environment." This component is designed to strengthen national institutions such as the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI), SLeSCA, and SMP, while also supporting the private sector's involvement in the rice value chain.

Project Coordinator Abdulai Bun Wai emphasized the project's commitment to supporting the Feed Salone program. He underscored the importance of certified seeds in reducing rice importation, stating, "We are working towards making Sierra Leone self-sufficient in rice production, and certified seeds play a pivotal role in achieving this goal."

Dr. Robert Chakanda, Executive Director of SLeSCA, provided insights into the agency's efforts to streamline the seed sector. "Our agency is working tirelessly to ensure that certified vendors are available across the districts," he said. The funds from the project have enabled SLeSCA to train over 30 seed dealers and master farmers in quality and standard seed certification. Additionally, a seed satellite laboratory has been established in Bonthe District to further support these efforts.

Edward Gbappie, National Programme Coordinator of SMP, highlighted the challenges faced due to flooding, which impacted the rice cultivated .Despite these setbacks, the project facilitated the procurement of four motorbikes to aid in field operations and the cultivation of additional acreage. Gbappi called for continued support, particularly in rehabilitating 100 acres of Inland Valley Swamps (IVS) and acquiring necessary equipment like tractors.

The discussions will continue to ensure the project's initiatives support the production of breeder and foundation seeds, crucial for achieving large-scale multiplication and certification. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance rice production in Sierra Leone, a key priority of the government.

The multi-stakeholder approach aims to create a robust and sustainable agricultural seed sector, reducing dependency on rice imports and ensuring food security for the nation.

The Regional Rice Value Chain Project is co-financed by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and the Government of Sierra Leone.

Tamba Tengbeh