The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), has provided vital support to 420 poultry farmers in Pujehun District. The initiative, part of efforts under the government’s FeedSalone initiative, was launched at a ceremony in Bandajuma Town, Sowa Chiefdom, on Friday, 17 January 2025.
As part of the support, each farmer from six chiefdoms in the district received six Chicken and a bag of chicken feed. The intervention aims to boost poultry production, enhance nutrition, and support livelihoods across the region.
Speaking at the event, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Theresa Tenneh Dick, emphasized the importance of poultry in improving nutrition and food security. “Poultry and eggs are key sources of protein for many Sierra Leoneans. This initiative ensures communities can rear and consume home-grown poultry, which is vital for the well-being of women and children,” she said.
Dr. Dick highlighted the economic benefits of the support, urging farmers to view the support as a business opportunity. “We want to empower communities to produce more poultry and eggs, generate income, and contribute to sustainable development,” she added.
FAO representative Mr. Harding Wuyango reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the Feed Salone initiative, describing the intervention as part of FAO’s broader strategy to enhance food security and self-sufficiency in Sierra Leone. “We are proud to support poultry farmers with Day-Old-Chicks (Layers) and feed to empower them to produce nutritious food while improving their incomes,” said Mr. Wuyango. He also emphasized the longstanding partnership between FAO and the Sierra Leone Government in uplifting communities through agricultural development.
District Agriculture Officer Lucy Koker expressed gratitude to FAO for prioritizing Pujehun District, describing the initiative as a step forward in achieving Feed Salone’s goals. “This support is transformative, especially for women and youth, who play significant roles in the poultry sector. With proper monitoring, we can extend these benefits to even more farmers,” she noted.
Paramount Chief Lahai A.K. Sowa welcomed the intervention, highlighting its impact on community livelihoods.”Farming is our main source of income, but poultry has not been affordable for many. Receiving this support from FAO and MAFS will enable us to produce poultry on a larger scale, ensuring our families and communities are well-fed,” said Chief Sowa.
The FAO and MAFS pledged to continue strengthening the poultry sector through training and vaccination programs. These efforts aim to enhance productivity and drive economic growth, contributing to Sierra Leone’s food security goals. The initiative is expected to have a long-lasting impact, empowering communities to achieve sustainable agricultural practices and improve nutrition nationwide.