By Sulaiman Jalloh
On Thursday, 18 September 2025, at the Ministry of Finance Conference Hall in Freetown was the site of a pivotal meeting, where the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) presented its Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for the upcoming fiscal years of 2026 to 2028. This event drew a diverse assembly of key figures, including government officials, development partners, and representatives from civil society, who came together to delve into the ministry’s transformative vision for Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape.
In an inspiring address, Deputy Minister 1 of Agriculture, Dr. Theresa Tenneh Dick, articulated a bold vision for a revitalized agricultural sector one that embraces productivity, harnesses technolog,ical advan,cements, and actively engages the youth. Dr. Dick emphasized the critical role that agriculture plays as the backbone of Sierra Leone’s economy, asserting the need for sustained investment, modern infrastructure, and creative strategies to ensure food security and foster sustainable economic growth.
With a compelling narrative, Dr. Dick praised the resilience and determination of those committed to driving change, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and perseverance in the face of challenges. She expressed a clear aspiration: agriculture must evolve beyond a subsistence activity to become a vibrant economic sector that attracts young entrepreneurs and innovators. Central to her message was the ministry’s deliberate focus on technology, mechanization, and value chain
development, aimed at making the agricultural field more enticing to the youth, who are increasingly eager to engage in this vital sector.
Dr. Dick elaborated on the significant contributions of young individuals in agricultural production processes, from pre-weeding tasks to harvesting and transportation. She emphasized that these efforts cannot be overlooked, underscoring the ministry’s advocacy for enhanced resources to bolster mechanized farming initiatives. This aims to alleviate labor demands and elevate productivity levels. Several innovative programs, including backpacking initiatives, mechanization services, and specialized training workshops, are be
ng rolled out to ensure that farmers especially the youth receive the essential resources and expertise needed to enhance their yields and income.
Furthermore, Dr. Dick stressed the necessity of fostering trust and collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and local farming communities. She passionately called on all stakeholders to unite behind the ministry’s strategic agenda to improve food security and uplift rural livelihoods. Assuring attendees of MAFS headquarters’ unwavering commitment to providing the vital technical assistance, policy guidance, and institutional support required for successful nationwide program implementation, she laid the groundwork for a more cohesive approach to agricultural development.
As the presentation drew to a close, Dr. Dick issued a heartfelt invitation for open dialogue and collaboration. Encouraging participants to pose questions and offer their insights, she underscored the importance of collective input in refining the budget proposal prior to its final submission. With sincere appreciation, she acknowledged the ongoing support from the Ministry of Finance, development partners, and all involved stakeholders, reiterating that agriculture remains a national priority and an endeavor that requires shared responsibility from all sectors of society.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 22nd September, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
