China Boosts School Feeding Program with Over 20,000 Bags of Rice Donation.

In a remarkable display of international cooperation, the Government of the People’s Republic of China has donated 1,030 metric tons of rice to Sierra Leone — marking the second consecutive year of such vital support. Out of this total, 20,600 bags have been allocated to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) to strengthen the national school feeding program, while 7,000 bags were assigned to the Ministry of Fisheries.

On July 2, 2025, the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Mr. Brima M. Sowa, led a delegation including the Heads of Procurement and Finance and the National Coordinator of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) program to inspect the rice at the World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in eastern Freetown.

Mr. Sowa expressed appreciation for the donation, noting that it will significantly enhances government’s efforts to improve student attendance and learning outcomes under the FQSE initiative, championed by His Excellency Rtd Brigadier Julius Maada Bio.

FQSE National Coordinator, Mr. Augustine Koroma, emphasized the importance of quality assurance.

He assured that the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau would rigorously test the rice to ensure it meets all health and safety standards before distribution.

This donation underscores the value of global partnerships in advancing national development. By supporting school nutrition, the initiative contributes to building a healthier, more educated, and productive workforce for Sierra Leone’s future.

Contact:

Adama V. Conteh

SLENA Correspondent

Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education

+23288239381

Veronicaconteh701@gmail.com