SLARI and FSRP Host Open Field Day to Boost Farmers' Access to Modern Agricultural Technologies

On November 13, 2024, the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) in collaboration with the Food System Resilience Programme (FSRP) organized an Open Field Day at the SLARI Agricultural Technology and Innovation Park, drawing participation from six key agricultural districts: Port Loko, Tonkolili, Kambia, Bonthe, Pujehun, and Moyamba. Themed “Improving Farmers' Access to Modern Agricultural Technologies,” the event brought together farmers, private sector stakeholders, government representatives, and development partners, providing a platform for showcasing newly developed agricultural technologies.

The event was chaired by Mr. Emmanuel Marah, District Agriculture Officer for the Port Loko district, who welcomed the farmers and stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the agricultural technologies showcased during the event would reach farmers in every corner of Sierra Leone, enabling them to adopt more efficient, sustainable farming practices.

The event aimed to bridge the gap between research innovations and practical applications for farmers. Farmers from across the six districts had the unique opportunity to engage directly with experts at the Technology Park, learning about new farming tools and technologies designed to enhance productivity and resilience. The field day marked a significant step toward improving the dissemination of modern agricultural technologies and fostering stronger collaborations among key players in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.

Dr. Jonas, representing the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF), congratulated the SLARI Agricultural Technology and Innovation Park team for their tremendous efforts. Despite Sierra Leone being the last country to receive funding for the iReach Programme, Dr. Jonas praised the country’s swift and successful implementation of the initiative, positioning it as one of the standout performers in the region. He emphasized the importance of building strategic partnerships and involving the extension services wing of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to upscale the dissemination of these innovations.

Dr. Jonas also noted the critical role the private sector must play in seed production, stating that while SLARI will focus on developing breeder and foundation seeds, it will rely on private sector players to produce certified seeds for farmers. He stressed the need for further collaboration in the areas of partnership and advisory services and urged support for young farmers already actively engaged in agriculture.

Mrs. Finda Joseph, a Gender-Based Violence and Gender Specialist from FSRP commended SLARI’s research initiatives, classifying their work as "Research for Development" and aptly labelling the seeds produced as "Seeds for Life." She highlighted the support provided by the World Bank to elevate the SLARI Agricultural Technology and Innovation Park to international standards and revealed plans to establish similar parks in other regions of Sierra Leone to ensure nationwide access to agricultural innovations.

Mrs. Joseph's message reflected FSRP's commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive agricultural environment, one where farmers, particularly women and youth, can thrive and benefit from cutting-edge research and technologies.

In his address, Dr. Prince E. Norman, Deputy Director General for Research and Technology Development at SLARI, underscored the importance of innovation in agriculture. "Innovation is not just about releasing a variety; it’s about creating practical solutions for farmers’ agricultural activities," he said. He emphasized that research collaboration is crucial for achieving food security in Sierra Leone and that the SLARI Agricultural Technology and Innovation Park is a valuable resource where farmers can receive expert advisory services on modern agronomic practices. Dr. Norman encouraged greater private sector involvement, particularly in the commercialization and export of the technologies being developed by SLARI.

One of the highlights of the day was a powerful performance by the Rokupr Agricultural Research Centre School Farming Club. Through a drama presentation, the students emphasized the importance of teaching young people good agronomic practices early on, under the theme “Catch Us Now That We Are Young.” Their message resonated with the audience, reflecting the need to nurture the next generation of master farmers and ensure that agriculture remains a vital part of Sierra Leone’s future.

The Open Field Day concluded with the signing of key partnership agreements between SLARI and several local organizations, including AAD-SL, MADAM, Seed Tech, and SLeCad. These partnerships aim to further enhance the dissemination and commercialization of agricultural technologies across the country.

The event ended with a tour of the SLARI Agricultural Technology and Innovation Park, where farmers were able to see firsthand the new technologies that promise to transform Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape.

With the success of the Open Field Day, SLARI and FSRP continue to play pivotal roles in strengthening Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers across the country have access to the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. As collaboration between research institutions, the private sector, and government agencies deepens, the future of agriculture in Sierra Leone looks brighter than ever.