AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Sierra Leone is a nation with abundant rainfall, temperate climate, several rivers for irrigation and estimated 5.4 million hectares of arable land, 75 percent of which remain uncultivated. The land is suitable for the cultivation of crops such as cereals, tubers, cash crops, vegetables and rearing of livestock.
The government is focused on increasing budgetary allocation of 10 percent to align with the Maputo Accord and attract external investment to boost productivity through mechanized commercial agricultural development alongside over $200 million funding which has been sourced from the World Bank, the Food and Agricultural Organization, the European Union and other international organizations to increase food production and as such will reduce import.
The government further plans to inspire mining firms to invest in agriculture in support of their mining communities, encourage banks to lend for agricultural purposes and compel politicians within the ministerial and parliamentary cadre to invest in agriculture.
OPPORTUNITIES
Labor saving agricultural equipment like tractors, power tillers, ploughs, and harvesters are opportunities for exporters and investors.
Investing in the provision of irrigation service as a result of the topography can offer particularly for rice up to three cycles in a year.
Adding value to agricultural products through processing and manufacturing presents an opportunity for investors for both the domestic and the international markets.
Investing in areas like agro-logistics and packaging are useful aspects required for local manufactures for the international market.
Partnerships with local farmers to expand cultivation, establish adequate storage and preservation facilities, and value addition chains are aspects that will eliminate post-harvest wastages of especially perishable crops like vegetables and fruits.
CHALLENGES
One of the major constraints facing the agricultural sector is the use of modern technology and mechanized equipment in the intensive cultivation of crops and the processing and preservation of fish catch and the provision of limited supply of agricultural inputs like fertilizer, improved seeds, agro-chemicals, animal feeds and veterinary inputs.
For more information, visit website: https://maf.gov.sl
|
