By Sulaiman Jalloh
A game changing trajectory is unfolding in Koinadugu, much to the admiration of all and sundry. This evident because exciting developments are unfolding in Nieni Chiefdom and the surrounding regions. Nieni Agric Limited, a locally-based agricultural enterprise, has announced that its garri products are now available in the market, marking a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to achieve food security and economic empowerment. This breakthrough is part of a larger agricultural initiative driven by Honorable Zac and Honorable Deputy Minister Umaro Napoleon Koroma, both of whom are committed to revitalizing the agricultural sector in the region and fulfilling the national “Feed Salone” agenda championed by President Maada Bio.
The introduction of garri to the market is just the beginning. Nieni Agric Limited has also revealed that other essential food products such as rice, corn, and more will soon be available, further diversifying the local food supply. This is a major step forward for Nieni Chiefdom, a region that has long faced challenges related to food scarcity and economic underdevelopment. The initiative not only aims to provide affordable and nutritious food to the local population but also to reduce dependence on imported goods, thereby retaining more economic value within the community.
Honorable Zac and Minister Umaro Napoleon Koroma have been at the forefront of this transformative project. Their dedication stems from a desire to alleviate hunger in Nieni Chiefdom and beyond. By enhancing local agricultural productivity, they aim to ensure that the community has a steady supply of food, even in times of national shortages. The project aligns with the broader “Feed Salone” initiative, which seeks to make Sierra Leone self-sufficient in food production. President Maada Bio’s vision of a food-secure nation is steadily becoming a reality in Nieni Chiefdom, thanks to the tireless efforts of these local leaders.
One of the most promising aspects of this project is its scalability. Nieni Agric Limited has already laid the groundwork for expanding its operations. Plans are in place to establish six additional production centers across Kasonko, Diang, Kelian, and Nieni Chiefdoms. These centers will be strategically located near thriving cassava farms, which are the raw material for garri production. The expansion of these facilities will not only increase the availability of garri and other food products but will also create numerous job opportunities for local residents, boosting the region’s economy.
The establishment of these new centers is particularly significant for the local communities. It represents a sustainable model of development that harnesses local resources and labor. The cassava farms, which form the backbone of this project, are already contributing to the region’s economy by providing a reliable source of income for farmers. As the project grows, it will enhance the economic resilience of these communities, reducing poverty and improving living standards.
Moreover, this initiative has the potential to serve as a blueprint for other regions in Sierra Leone. By demonstrating how local agricultural projects can effectively address food security issues, Nieni Agric Limited is setting an example for similar initiatives across the country. The success of this project could inspire other chiefdoms to adopt similar strategies, furthering the “Feed Salone” agenda on a national scale.
In the nutshell, the availability of garri from Nieni Agric Limited in the market is a significant achievement for Nieni Chiefdom and its neighboring regions. Under the leadership of Honorable Zac and Minister Umaro Napoleon Koroma, the project is not only addressing immediate food needs but is also laying the foundation for long-term economic and social development. As the project continues to expand, it holds the promise of transforming Nieni Chiefdom into a beacon of agricultural productivity and food security in Sierra Leone.