Dr. Abanga Calls for Modern Mechanization to Boost Sierra Leone’s Agriculture and Food Security
The CEO of Abanga Farms & Food Systems, Dr. Thomas Abanga, took center stage at the Sierra Leone Workshop on Strengthening Resilience in Food Systems Transformation, held on September 12-13, 2024, in Freetown. In his insightful speech, Dr. Abanga emphasized the pivotal role modern mechanization plays in advancing agricultural productivity, fostering economic growth, and reducing Sierra Leone’s reliance on food imports.
The workshop, a key event bringing together experts, government officials, and stakeholders in agriculture and food systems, focused on addressing the critical challenges facing food security and resilience across Sierra Leone. Dr. Abanga’s contribution highlighted how mechanization, when integrated into local agricultural practices, could unlock the country’s untapped agricultural potential.
Mechanization as a Catalyst for Change
In his address, Dr. Abanga outlined how modern mechanization serves as a catalyst for improving both agricultural productivity and the overall economic landscape in Sierra Leone. He explained that by adopting innovative machinery and technologies, local farmers can increase output, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance efficiency across the value chain.
This, he noted, directly contributes to reducing Sierra Leone’s dependence on imported food, which currently strains the country’s foreign exchange reserves. By growing more food locally and implementing mechanized systems, Sierra Leone can move toward greater self-sufficiency and food security.
Empowering Youth and Women in Agriculture
A key point in Dr. Abanga’s speech was the transformative impact of mechanization on employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women. He stressed that modern agricultural systems offer more than just an increase in productivity; they create jobs and empower communities. Abanga Farms & Food Systems has made a concerted effort to prioritize youth and women in their agricultural initiatives, and Dr. Abanga underscored the importance of ensuring that these groups have access to mechanization tools and training.
By increasing mechanization across Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, the country can tap into the talents and energy of its younger generation, while also enhancing the role of women in farming—driving both social and economic progress.
Nutrition and Food Security at the Heart of Healthcare
Dr. Abanga also touched on the interconnectedness of food security, nutrition, and healthcare. He argued that strengthening agricultural productivity through mechanization will not only address hunger but also enhance nutrition across the country. Improved access to nutritious, locally-produced food will positively influence healthcare outcomes, as proper nutrition is a critical component of a healthy population.
He supported the initiative of the Honourable Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, by placing nutrition and food security at the center of Sierra Leone’s healthcare delivery system, recognizing that addressing malnutrition and hunger is essential for sustainable development and the well-being of future generations.
Looking Ahead: Abanga Farms’ Commitment to Sierra Leone
Dr. Abanga concluded his speech by reaffirming the commitment of Abanga Farms & Food Systems to supporting Sierra Leone’s agricultural transformation. Through their partnership with the Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) and other key players, Abanga Farms is poised to contribute to large-scale rice production and increased mechanization across the country.
As Sierra Leone continues to work toward strengthening its food systems, the role of mechanization and the commitment of companies like Abanga Farms & Food Systems will be essential in building a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural future.
With this vision, Dr. Abanga left participants at the workshop with a clear message: modern mechanization is not just about technology; it is a pathway to economic empowerment, food security, and a brighter future for Sierra Leone.
