The Sierra Leone Rice Agro-Industrial Cluster (SL RAIC) Project, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, led by Hon. Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, has taken a significant step towards achieving rice sovereignty and improving rural livelihoods in Bonthe and Pujehun Districts. Specifically, the project targets the Gbondapi and Torma Bum landscapes, key areas in the government’s “Feed Salone” initiative.
On October 8th, 2024, the SL RAIC Project Manager, Mr. John M.P. Sinah, signed contracts with PAVIFORT-SEBIL JV and FERMAK JV to develop 2,200 hectares of canal irrigation systems. The contract signing took place at the project’s office in Bo City. PAVIFORT-SEBIL JV will be responsible for the development of 1,400 hectares at Torma Bum, while FERMAK JV will develop 800 hectares in Gbondapi.
In his address, Mr. Sinah congratulated the two firms for successfully securing the contracts following a rigorous, transparent, and competitive bidding process. He emphasized that the SL RAIC Project is a crucial driver of the Feed Salone flagship program, and the entire nation is eager to see the project’s success. Mr. Sinah urged the firms to work closely with the project team and supervision consultants to ensure timely and quality delivery. He highlighted the critical role of this irrigation system in achieving rice self-sufficiency, stressing that delays and poor execution are not options. He concluded by encouraging the firms to view their contribution as a patriotic duty, vital to transforming Sierra Leone’s economy.
Representing the contractors, Mr. Mohamed Kamara, Manager of PAVIFORT-SEBIL JV, expressed gratitude to the project team and evaluation committee for the opportunity to contribute to this national effort. He assured the project team that work would begin promptly, once water levels recede enough to avoid disruptions. Mr. Kamara also committed to adhering to all contract terms, including the project timeline and Environmental and Social Safeguard measures.
The SL RAIC Project, funded by the African Development Bank and the Government of Sierra Leone, aims to achieve rice self-sufficiency and improve the livelihoods of rural households. The development of this canal irrigation system will promote multiple cropping, thereby increasing rice production and productivity.
#Together we will Feed Salone!