Minister of Agriculture Launches Major Mechanization Project in Kono
By Osman Marah
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, officially launched a large-scale private sector mechanization project in Kono District on Thursday, marking a significant step toward modernizing the country’s agricultural practices.
The project, spearheaded by agribusiness entrepreneur Madam Siita Kaikai, introduces six brand-new tractors and a suite of advanced farming equipment aimed at enhancing productivity and reducing manual labor for farmers across the district.
The initiative supports President Julius Maada Bio’s “Feed Salone” campaign, which calls for increased private sector engagement in agriculture. Minister Kpaka hailed the investment as a critical move in aligning private innovation with national agricultural goals.
“This is a timely and strategic response to the President’s call,” Kpaka said. “Madam Kaikai’s efforts will help improve farming efficiency in Kono and serve as a model for other regions.”
The Minister added that projects of this nature could qualify for government-backed agricultural credit schemes to incentivize further private investments in the sector.
In addition to the mechanization launch, Dr. Kpaka announced Cabinet’s approval of the National Cattle Settlement Policy. The policy aims to address long-standing conflicts between farmers and herders by formalizing cattle grazing systems. He also spotlighted the forthcoming $105 million Livestock and Livelihood Development Project, which will include major activities in Kono District.
The combined initiatives are part of a broader government push to strengthen food security, improve rural livelihoods, and transform Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape.
