As we close the year, I reflect on the journey of Feed Salone, President Bio’s ambitious strategy to transform our food systems empower farmers, and drive equitable economic growth while building resilience in Sierra Leone. This past year has been one of deliberate action, innovative approaches, and a relentless focus on results. It has also been a deeply personal journey of leadership and growth.
Our approach has been different. We’ve been deliberate and consistent, tackling challenges head-on while staying close to those who matter most—our farmers and rural communities. Feed Salone is about making agriculture a source of national pride, helping farmers see their work as vital and honorable.
We didn’t try to solve every issue at once, but we accomplished something critical: helping people understand that transforming agriculture is a civic responsibility. We also recognized and supported those actively driving change—the farmers, our partners, and the hardworking teams on the ground.
Rather than dispersing resources, we channelled existing funds strategically, focusing on rice hubs and maximizing impact in areas like infrastructure, agriculture financing, and empowering women and youth.
We prioritized the private sector, and they have responded positively to our policies. An increasing number of agribusinesses are applying for loans from commercial banks and utilizing our Agriculture Credit Facility at the Bank of Sierra Leone to launch or expand their operations across various value chains.
Partnerships have been critical. Whether mobilizing over USD 1 billion in financing or leveraging technical expertise, we’ve collaborated with international institutions, industry leaders, and academia to bring the best solutions to Sierra Leone.
Leadership in Action
Staying focused on results has been my anchor in this journey.
Leading in this space has demanded a great deal of resilience and adaptability. Balancing the role’s demands requires staying grounded, which I achieve by carving out time for myself. My exercise routine helps me navigate the pressures, and sharp-witted observations from my kids keep me centered. Along the way, I’ve developed a thick skin, enabling me to parse out distractions and concentrate on what truly matters.
President Bio’s vision and unwavering support have been the driving force behind our progress. His determination and leadership by example inspire and energize my team and me to keep pushing forward.
But leadership is never a solo act. My core team at the Ministry has been instrumental, aligning efforts and fostering collaboration to achieve shared goals in this complex system.
This year, I’ve grown more confident—not because the challenges have lessened, but because I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the system’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as my own. And the gains we’ve made motivate me to push even further.
As we move into 2025
As we look ahead, I know there is more to be done. Implementation efficiency must improve. Our focus remains on better planting and harvesting practices, stronger supply chains, and increasing local rice production so that we can see more Sierra Leonean rice in our markets.
Feed Salone is a collective mission. As whole-of-government, together with our partners and—most importantly—our farmers and businesses, we are building resilient food systems that work for all. We’re also positioning Sierra Leone as a global leader in food systems transformation.
To everyone who has supported this journey: thank you. Your contributions have been invaluable, and your belief in what we’re building continues to drive me—and us—forward.
I will step into the new year with strong confidence that together, #WeWillFeedSalone.
Stay with us or join us for another transformative year in implementing Feed Salone.
Wishing You All a Happy and Successful 2025
Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka Minister of Agriculture and Food Security
