By Kadiatu Sankoh
On Wednesday March 20th, 2024, the Welt Hunger Hilfe Sierra Leone (WHH) orchestrated a pivotal two-day workshop at the Bamoi Hotel in Freetown, Aberdeen. This gathering aimed to address pressing issues surrounding the production of cocoa, coffee, and cashew in Sierra Leone.
The event drew key figures from various sectors, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Produce Monetary Board, UNIDO, Solidaridad, and Farmers Cooperatives.
George Mugai, Head of projects for the Cocoa value chain project at Welt Hunger Hilfe, shed light on the Agricultural Development for Organic Resources (ADOR) project. Launched four years prior, ADOR focuses on enhancing cocoa production in Sierra Leone’s Eastern Provinces.
Mugai emphasized the significance of convening stakeholders to confront challenges such as climate change, which has led to a significant decline in cocoa production volumes. He stressed the need for collaborative efforts to devise effective solutions.
Mrs. Yatta Samai, President of the National Federation of Farmers in Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude for farmers’ recognition at such high-level discussions. She highlighted the importance of unity among farmers and other stakeholders in driving meaningful change in the country’s food system.
Taha A. Skaikay, Managing Partner at Tas Stores Co SL Limited, the largest exporters of cocoa and coffee in Sierra Leone, echoed the sentiment of collaboration. He welcomed the opportunity to engage with fellow stakeholders regularly to address systemic challenges in the exportation process.
The workshop served as a platform for diverse stakeholders to come together, recognizing the interdependence of various actors in Sierra Leone’s cocoa, coffee, and cashew value chain. With shared commitment and collaboration, they aim to overcome obstacles and foster sustainable growth in the industry.