Sierra Leone’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Henry Musa Kpaka, has been appointed Chairman of the AfricaRice Council of Ministers at its 34th Ordinary Session, marking a significant development in the country’s contribution to agricultural leadership and food security across the African continent.
Dr Kpaka’s appointment places him at the forefront of continental efforts to advance rice research, promote agricultural innovation and strengthen food security among AfricaRice’s 28 member countries.
Expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by his fellow ministers, Dr Kpaka said he was honoured to accept the responsibility and looked forward to working closely with other member countries to accelerate rice productivity, enhance competitiveness and unlock the full potential of Africa’s rice value chain.
He emphasised that rice represents an estimated US$30 billion industry in Africa, describing the sector as a major economic opportunity that requires strategic investment, innovation and stronger collaboration among African governments and development partners.
According to him, his ambition as Chairman is to work closely with the leadership of AfricaRice, agricultural scientists, governments and private-sector stakeholders to ensure that African farmers benefit more substantially from the continent’s growing rice industry.
He further underscored the importance of building a more productive and competitive rice sector capable of supporting farmers, strengthening agricultural economies and contributing to sustainable food security across the continent.
Dr Kpaka’s appointment is expected to provide an opportunity for Sierra Leone to contribute more actively to continental discussions and initiatives aimed at transforming Africa’s rice sector, improving agricultural productivity and reducing dependence on imported rice.
He expressed optimism that through collective commitment and cooperation, African countries can build a stronger, more competitive and prosperous rice industry that delivers greater economic benefits to farmers and communities across the continent.