Sierra Leone Secures €35 Million EU Funding to Boost Agriculture

January 31, 2025

Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, has overseen the signing of a €35 million financing agreement with the European Union (EU) to strengthen the country’s agricultural value chains. The deal, signed at State House, supports the government's Feed Salone program, which aims to enhance food security and increase production.

Finance Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura highlighted the significance of the funding, emphasizing its role in improving the food value chain. Agriculture Minister Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka praised the EU’s long-standing support and noted that the funds would specifically target cassava, oil palm, and infant food production.

EU Ambassador Jacek Jankowski described the agreement as a milestone in agricultural financing, stressing its focus on sustainability, efficiency, and job creation, particularly for women and youth in vocational training programs. He also underscored the EU’s commitment to climate-smart agriculture and inclusive economic growth.

President Bio expressed gratitude for the EU’s continued support, noting that the partnership extends beyond infrastructure to community development. He reaffirmed his administration’s focus on food security, nutrition, and employment, ensuring that the funding will drive tangible improvements in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.

The event concluded with a pledge from both sides to enhance cooperation for sustainable agriculture and economic development in the country.