Ministry of Agriculture Receives Rice Productivity Update from JICA.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency has presented a detailed progress report on rice productivity improvement to Sierra Leone's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security during the 3rd Joint Coordinating Committee Meeting.

The presentation, titled 'Rice Productivity Improvement Project,' took place on March 6, 2026, at the Conference Hall. It focused on second-year results compared to the initial implementation phase.

Deputy Minister One Dr. Theresa T. Dick opened proceedings with appreciation for JICA's support, specifically highlighting assistance for inland valley plantation development, a government priority area. She urged continued technical collaboration and praised District Agriculture Officers for their transformation efforts across multiple districts.

Senior Permanent Secretary Mrs. Nancy Tengbeh acknowledged JICA's contributions while revealing that the Ministry achieved first position with a perfect score in the 2025 Ministerial Performance Contract Report. She emphasized transparency and accountability commitments, calling for unified action toward achieving the 'Feed Salone' initiative with potential regional impact extending to Liberia, Nigeria, and the Ivory Coast.

Chief Advisor Mr. Takashi Kimijima outlined the five-year project timeline spanning 2024 to 2029. The initiative targets rice productivity improvements through the Technical Package for Rice production, focusing on Farmer-Based Organizations across eight districts: Moyamba, Bo, Kenema, Kailahun, Kambia, Port Loko, Bombali, and Karene. He identified MAFS and Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute as implementing partners.

Chief Agriculture Officer Prof. Abdulai Jalloh acknowledged JICA's longstanding friendship with Sierra Leone, particularly noting strategic collaboration on rice productivity enhancement.

JICA Project Formulation Advisor Mr. Ken Awano described the meeting as vital for reviewing progress, reaffirming future activities, and addressing upcoming challenges. He explained the project aims to increase inland valley swamp productivity through capacity building for extension workers and FBOs, with visible application of the Technical Package for Rice production essential for achieving 'Feed Salone.'

Mr. Awano praised Minister Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka's leadership and commended District Agriculture Officers as dedicated field workers. He recalled JICA's 2025 provision of 22 motorbikes and a Toyota Land Cruiser, noting 2026 represents the project midpoint when tangible results are expected. He reassured JICA's continued implementation commitment.

Correspondent-Musa Kamara

Email: Kaymuzay222@gmail.com

Tel: +232 78 155260