President Julius Maada Bio has called for greater private sector involvement in the country’s "Feed Salone" project, an ambitious initiative aimed at boosting food security and reducing reliance on food imports.

Speaking at a recent stakeholders' forum in State House Freetown, President Bio emphasized the vital role the private sector can play in transforming the agricultural landscape.

He highlighted that the government's efforts alone would not be enough to meet the nation's food needs, urging businesses to collaborate in developing sustainable agricultural practices.

He pointed to the importance of investment in key areas such as agricultural technology, infrastructure, and food processing, which would not only increase productivity but also create jobs and foster economic growth.

President Bio outlined incentives such as tax breaks and reduced tariffs on agricultural equipment to encourage private sector participation.

He noted that partnerships between government and businesses could unlock the potential of Sierra Leone’s rich natural resources, turning the country into a net exporter of food products.

The Feed Salone project aims to enhance local food production through modernization, improved supply chains, and capacity-building initiatives for farmers.

President Bio expressed optimism that with the right private sector involvement, Sierra Leone can achieve self-sufficiency in food production and move towards a more prosperous, food-secure future.

The call for private sector collaboration comes as Sierra Leone faces growing challenges related to food insecurity, exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions and climate change. The success of Feed Salone, according to President Bio, depends on collective effort from all sectors.