As part of the West Africa Food System Resilience Program (FSRP), the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has provided essential support to the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) for the effective implementation of the Feed Salone initiative.
A key aspect of this collaboration is to address the challenges faced by local farmers, with weed management emerging as one of the most pressing issues. Weeds are a major threat to agricultural production, competing for vital resources such as light, water and nutrients. Recognising this challenge, IITA and SLARI, with the support of the FSRP and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, organised a two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at empowering Spray Service Providers (SSPs). Held at Taiama Resort in Moyamba District from 18 to 19 September 2024, the training workshop targeted 75 participants from the Eastern, Southern and Northern regions of Sierra Leone.
The training focused on equipping PHCs with the skills, knowledge and technologies needed for effective weed management and other agricultural practices. Key topics included good agronomic practices, weed management in cassava, use of the IITA herbicide calculator and herbicide safety and use. These tools are essential for improving productivity, creating jobs in rural communities and strengthening food security throughout the country.
The workshop has been designed not only to provide theoretical knowledge, but also to ensure that participants can apply these techniques directly in the field. By using advanced herbicide management strategies and adhering to best agronomic practices, farmers should see a significant increase in their crop yields this season.
Through the intervention of IITA and SLARI, local farmers are expected to benefit greatly from this partnership. The continued support of the Feed Salone initiative continues to demonstrate how international collaboration can meet the needs of Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, ensuring sustainable growth and resilience in the face of challenges.
This initiative promises a brighter future for Sierra Leone’s farmers and the communities that depend on their success.
