By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In a bid to strengthen agricultural research and improve working conditions for researchers, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh engaged with the leadership of the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at State House. The high-level discussion, which included the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, and SLARI’s Acting Director-General, Dr. Conteh, centered on the implementation of the SLARI Act 2023 and the pressing concerns of research staff.
Dr. Sengeh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing agricultural research as a cornerstone for national development, food security, and innovation. He emphasized that the successful implementation of the SLARI Act 2023 is crucial in addressing key challenges in the research sector, ensuring structured career progression, and fostering a conducive environment for researchers to thrive.
Speaking on behalf of SLARI staff, Dr. Conteh expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for granting the audience and commended the continuous support of Dr. Kpaka and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. He highlighted the urgent need for a structured career pathway for researchers that aligns with the standards of higher learning institutions in the country. He further underscored the importance of incentives and improved conditions of service to attract and retain top-tier researchers.
Minister of Agriculture Dr. Kpaka reiterated the government’s unwavering support for SLARI, acknowledging that research remains a critical pillar in Sierra Leone’s agricultural development. He assured the SLARI leadership that the ministry is committed to implementing policies that will enhance research excellence and improve staff welfare.
Drawing inspiration from Dr. Sengeh’s own academic achievement, including his groundbreaking Ph.D. research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Dr. Conteh stressed the need for policies that promote scientific excellence in the agricultural sector. The meeting underscored the government’s vision for a robust research framework that not only enhances food security but also drives national progress through scientific innovation.
With the government’s continued support and the commitment of SLARI’s leadership, stakeholders remain optimistic that the full implementation of the SLARI Act 2023 will pave the way for a stronger, more resilient agricultural research sector in Sierra Leone.