Collaborative Efforts Lead to Productive Land Agreement for Large-Scale Rice Farming in Sierra Leone.
On September 15, 2024, Dr. Thomas Abanga, CEO of Abanga Farms & Food Systems, held a critical meeting with landowners and Paramount Chief Bai Shebora Lion II at the proposed farm site in Sierra Leone. The gathering was centered around finalizing the terms of the land leasing agreement for large-scale rice production in the region, a key part of the transformative agricultural project spearheaded by Abanga Farms in collaboration with the local community.
The discussions were notably transparent and constructive, involving representatives from the local community who actively participated in the decision-making process. Dr. Abanga, along with the Paramount Chief and the landowners, addressed vital aspects of the agreement, ensuring that all voices were heard and that the terms of cooperation were fair and beneficial to all parties. This open dialogue reflected a mutual understanding of the long-term potential of the project, which aims to improve local livelihoods and advance food security in Sierra Leone.
Dr. Abanga emphasized the importance of community collaboration and trust in ensuring the success of the rice production initiative. He stated, “This is more than just a business venture; it’s a partnership with the local community. Together, we will create a sustainable agricultural model that provides jobs, improves food security, and contributes to economic growth for everyone involved.”
The Paramount Chief also expressed his optimism, praising the inclusive nature of the meeting. He reiterated his commitment to supporting the project, stating, “The people of this community are excited about the opportunities this project brings. We are eager to work hand-in-hand with Abanga Farms to achieve the goals we’ve set.”
The agreement, once finalized, will see Abanga Farms cultivating 50,000 hectares of land in the region, utilizing state-of-the-art mechanization and agritech to maximize productivity. This initiative is part of the broader Mano River Rice Initiative, which aims to strengthen the agricultural sector across Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.
The success of this meeting has set the stage for a collaborative and prosperous future. With the full support of the community and local leadership, Abanga Farms is well-positioned to drive the region’s agricultural transformation, contributing not only to local development but also to Sierra Leone’s goal of reducing its dependence on rice imports and boosting food security.
As the project moves into the next phase, including land preparation and the arrival of modern machinery and rice seeds, all parties are highly motivated for what lies ahead. The fruitful discussions from this meeting mark an important milestone in creating lasting partnerships that will benefit the community for generations to come.
