Handing Over Ceremony of Logistics Materials and Equipment to Support RICOWAS Field Implementation in Sierra Leone

The Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI), serving as the National Executing Entity (NEE) for the RICOWAS project, held a significant handing-over ceremony on Monday 27th May 2024 at SLARI Headquarters to mark the acquisition of essential logistics materials aimed at bolstering the project's field implementation efforts. This crucial procurement aims to address the logistical constraints currently hindering SLARI and ensure the smooth execution of the RICOWAS initiative.

Funded by the Adaptation Fund (AF) and implemented by the Sahara and Sahel Observatory Observatoire du Sahara et du Sahel (OSS) Sahara and Sahel Observatory ), the RICOWAS project aims to improve the resilience of rice production through strategic interventions and innovative practices. The recently obtained logistical materials, procured following Sierra Leone's strict legal procurement policy, consist of various office and communication equipment, including amongst others: GPS, laptops, printers, and internet access, to facilitate the efficient implementation of the data collection and tracking process.

During the ceremony, the RICOWAS Project Coordinator Mr. Samuel Soki Harding highlighted the importance of these materials in supporting the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) officers and other field implementers. The equipment will significantly enhance their ability to capture, process, and analyze data from the field. This is critical for conducting Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) measures and assembling comprehensive reports to track project performance indicators.

Dr. Abdul R. Conteh, the Ag. Director General of SLARI expressed his gratitude to the Adaptation Fund and Observatoire du Sahara et du Sahel (OSS) Sahara and Sahel Observatory for their unwavering support. "The logistics materials and equipment provided today are not just tools but vital assets that will empower our team to effectively monitor and improve rice production under the Climate Resilient Rice Production (CRRP) program. This support comes at a pivotal time and will undoubtedly contribute to the successful implementation and sustainability of the RICOWAS project," he said.

As the ceremony concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism and determination among the attendees. The handover of these logistics materials marks a significant milestone in the RICOWAS project, paving the way for more efficient and effective implementation of its objectives. With these new resources, SLARI is better equipped to overcome logistical challenges and drive forward the mission of enhancing rice production and resilience in Sierra Leone.

The coordinated efforts of both national and international collaborators in addressing the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable agricultural development are exemplified by this event. The effective utilization of these logistical resources is anticipated to significantly influence the overall achievement of the RICOWAS project, ultimately benefiting agricultural communities, especially the smallholder farmers and hence contributing to the nation's food security objectives.