By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has joined women farmers to harvest rice at his farm in Masiaka, Western Area, in a move highlighting the importance of local agricultural production and the need for collective efforts to strengthen food security in Sierra Leone.
The President participated in the rice harvest on Saturday, November 7, 2026, working alongside the women farmers at the farm as part of efforts to encourage greater participation in agriculture and promote domestic food production.
In a statement following the activity, President Bio shared his experience, emphasising the importance of leading by example in the country’s drive towards food self-sufficiency.
“Today, I helped the women at my Masiaka farm to harvest rice. What a feeling to lead by example to feed the Land that we Love,” he stated.
The activity brought attention to the importance of rice farming, which remains central to Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector and national food security agenda. Rice is the country’s staple food, making increased local production essential to reducing dependence on imported rice and strengthening the nation’s ability to feed its population.
The President’s participation also highlighted the significant contribution of women farmers to agricultural development. Women play a vital role in rice cultivation and other farming activities across the country, contributing to household livelihoods, rural economic development and national food production.
Sierra Leone continues to face challenges in meeting its domestic rice demand, making increased investment in agriculture, improved farming practices and support for local farmers important to the country’s development priorities.
President Bio’s involvement in the harvest at Masiaka sends a message about the importance of practical participation in agriculture and encouraging citizens, particularly young people and women, to recognise farming as an important contributor to national development.
The rice harvest also reinforces the broader call for Sierra Leoneans to support local agricultural production as the country works towards improving food availability, strengthening rural livelihoods and achieving greater food security.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 11th November 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
