By christian.conteh@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Kono District marked a transformative moment in its agricultural development as Agriculture Minister Henry Musa Kpaka officially launched a groundbreaking private sector mechanization initiative yesterday. The project, spearheaded by leading agribusiness entrepreneur Madam Siita Kaikai, introduces six state-of-the-art tractors and modern farming implements to boost productivity in the eastern region.
The investment directly supports President Julius Maada Bio’s Feed Salone initiative, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can modernize Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector. Minister Kpaka hailed Madam Kaikai’s leadership in responding to the government’s appeal for private investment in food system transformation.
“This mechanization package represents more than just equipment – it’s a sustainable model we hope to replicate nationwide,” Kpaka stated during the launch ceremony. “By proving the commercial viability of agricultural investments, we’re paving the way for more private sector participation and improved access to financing for agri-businesses.”
Alongside the mechanization launch, the Minister announced two significant policy developments:
- National Cattle Settlement Policy: Recently approved by Cabinet, this framework aims to resolve persistent farmer-herder conflicts that have hampered agricultural productivity in Kono and other regions.
- $105 Million Livestock Project: The upcoming Livestock and Livelihood Development Initiative will position Kono as a key implementation site for strengthening Sierra Leone’s animal husbandry sector.
The new machinery will enable local farmers to:
- Expand cultivated acreage
- Improve planting efficiency
- Increase crop yields
- Reduce post-harvest losses
Madam Kaikai emphasized her commitment to making the equipment accessible to smallholder farmers through affordable service arrangements, rather than outright purchases.
Kono District’s agricultural output has historically been constrained by manual farming methods. This investment marks a strategic shift toward mechanized agriculture that could:
- Boost food security
- Create employment opportunities
- Stimulate related agribusinesses
- Serve as a model for other districts
The Ministry of Agriculture confirms similar private sector engagements are being finalized for other regions, with an ambitious target to mechanize 40% of domestic crop production within five years.
As the tractors begin operations this planting season, all eyes will be on Kono to demonstrate how strategic private investments can catalyze Sierra Leone’s agricultural transformation. CC/7/4/2025
