Regional Rice Value Chain Project -MAF

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Regional Rice Value Chain Project -MAF

The project is to increase rice production, livelihood and income. Also, the project is linking production to the market.

The RRVCP target will support 35,000 farm families by adding value to their rice production and the food consumption dynamics will be changed. About 35,000 ha is targeted to be brought under an improved production system in two identified high potential projects locations.

11/12/2024

Regional Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) Hosts 7th National Steering Committee (NSC) Meeting

The Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) held its 7th National Steering Committee (NSC) meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at the Ministry’s Conference Hall, Youyi Building.

The NSC serves as the highest advisory and oversight body, ensuring the smooth implementation of the project. The meeting was called to order by the Permanent Secretary and chaired by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Kpaka expressed gratitude to attendees for their commitment. He emphasized the importance of the meeting in preparing the project’s annual work plan and budget ahead of the new year to ensure timely outreach to funders and donors.

Dr. Kpaka highlighted the significance of the RRVCP, popularly known as the “Tormabum Project,” noting its political and historical relevance as a means to restore Sierra Leone's former glory as a rice-exporting nation. He informed participants about the progress made in procurement and initial construction, stressing the need to expedite the irrigation system and rice mill installations to meet upcoming harvest timelines.

The Minister also revealed that the President plans to visit the project sites early next year to assess progress, and he himself would visit Tormabum shortly to monitor ongoing activities.

Dr. Kpaka concluded the meeting by urging contractors and the Project Management Unit (PMU) to accelerate work on the irrigation scheme, rice mills, and farmer mobilization. He reiterated his vision for the project to “get there and get better,” ensuring its success as a flagship initiative of the Ministry.

Mr. Abdulai Bun Wai, Project Coordinator of the RRVCP, presented the , reporting significant achievements in irrigation and development. He confirmed that by June 2025, 1,000 farmlands equipped with canals are expected to be operational.

The meeting was attended by technical staff, NSC members, and RRVCP personnel.

Christiana Brooks

05/11/2024

The Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP), in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), has successfully distributed 4,035 bags of N.P.K 15:15 and Urea to farmers in Mambolo Chiefdom, Kambia District. This distribution is part of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) microfinance scheme facilitated by Apex Bank. Mambolo have expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, which operates on a profit-sharing model rather than traditional interest rates. This aligns with the government’s initiative, aiming to boost rice production, empower and , and enhance livelihoods across farming communities.

17/10/2024

The celebrations in Kailahun this year coincided with the first anniversary of the program, under the theme “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future – Leave No One Behind.” The event highlighted the strides are making to ensure food security within their communities and beyond.

Farmers from Tormabum, Mambolo, and Samu, who are part of the Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, actively participated in the event. The attracted notable attention from President Julius Maada Bio, who was guided through the exhibits by Project Coordinator Abdulai Bun Wai. The booth showcased photos of a 15-tons-per-day milling machine installed in Tormabum, along with warehouses, an irrigation system, and locally produced rice.

The event in Kailahun brought together numerous from across the country, proudly displaying their products and innovations in value addition, celebrating their contributions to national food security.

12/10/2024

Regional Rice Value Chain Project Signs MoU with Seed Multiplication Programme to Boost Seed Production Capacity

The Rice Value Chain Project, operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has entered into a strategic partnership with the Seed Multiplication Program (SMP) by signing a of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration is part of the project's third component, "Fostering Enabling Policy and Institutional Environment", and aims to bolster the capacity of to significantly enhance seed production across the country.

The MoU outlines key areas of support and cooperation between the two entities, focusing on -building initiatives for SMP to increase its operational efficiency and productivity. This partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening production, which is crucial for the success of the overall rice value chain in Sierra Leone.

After the signing ceremony, Edward Smart Gbappi,Program Manager of the , expressed his gratitude for the project’s support, especially in terms of funding and logistics. He emphasized that the additional resources would enable SMP to up its seed production efforts. “This funding will not only strengthen the output of SMP but will also lead to a significant increase in seed yield. The logistical support provided by the project will be instrumental as we embark on massive seed production across the country,” Gbappi stated.

Abdulai Bun Wai,Project Coordinator of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project, urged SMP to ensure that the funds are utilized effectively and directed toward the intended activities. He emphasized the critical role that high-quality seeds play in improving rice production and productivity. “SMP’s judicious use of these funds is crucial, as seeds are an essential component in optimizing rice production. We expect these resources to be employed efficiently to achieve the desired outcomes,” Bun Wai remarked.

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25/09/2024

RRVCP and Apex Bank Engage Kambia Farmers on Islamic Micro Finance Loan Scheme

The Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP), in partnership with Apex Bank, held a series of community engagement meetings in Mambolo and Samu chiefdoms, Kambia District. These meetings aimed to sensitize Farmers-Based Organizations (FBOs) about the Islamic Micro Finance (IMF) opportunity, outlining the eligibility criteria and the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders to ensure loan repayment and the sustainability of the program.

The scheme, which forms part of the project’s objectives, is designed to empower women and youth to improve their livelihoods and contribute to economic growth through enhanced agricultural activities.

During the meeting, Fatmata Binta Jalloh, Agribusiness Specialist for the RRVCP, emphasized the purpose of the IMF loan, stating that it seeks to enable to increase their investments in rice production and post-harvest activities. She highlighted the project’s goal of transforming subsistence farming into a competitive agribusiness sector that can reduce rice importation and improve the livelihoods of actors across the value chain.

Haja Rashid, District Coordinator for the National Farmers Federation of Sierra Leone (NAFFSL) in Kambia, praised the initiative as a timely intervention for farmers. She urged them to remain committed to President Bio’s " Salone" program, which aims to achieve national food security.

Apex Bank's Managing Director, Nelson Salia Konneh, further explained the benefits and opportunities offered by the bank’s facilities. He emphasized the importance of utilizing these opportunities responsibly by repaying their loans, ensuring that other farmers can also benefit from the scheme. He noted that the Micro Finance loan operates differently from traditional loan schemes, offering specific support to farmers to boost rice production and productivity, aligning with the Feed Salone program.

Isatu Sesay, one of the project’s beneficiaries, expressed satisfaction with the initiative, stating that the loan would relieve some of the challenges they face in mangrove farming. She shared her hope that the loan would allow them to engage in other business activities alongside farming, thereby improving their overall economic standing.

The engagement reflects the RRVCP and Apex Bank’s ongoing commitment to support the Feed Salone program by improving the livelihoods of women and youth in rural communities.

12/09/2024

The of Agriculture and Food Security's Regional Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP), in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank and Live and Livelihood Fund donors , officially launched the Adaptive Results-Based Management (aRBM) Program on Thursday, September 12, at Dohas Hotel in Bo City.

The is a comprehensive management approach that focuses on achieving measurable results and clearly defined objectives.

It aims to improve project performance by ensuring that all processes, outputs, and services are effectively managed and delivered. The program provides a structured framework for monitoring and evaluating project activities, enabling better decision-making and accountability at all levels.

The launch brought together key stakeholders from the project areas in Bonthe and Kambia districts, as well as technical staff from the Ministry of Agriculture and other development partners. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to enhancing rice production and ensuring the success of the value chain in these districts, contributing to the overall goals of food security and agricultural development in Sierra Leone.

The Adaptive Results-Based Management (aRBM) program is being implemented by Delivering Associate, a consulting firm hired to support the Project Management Unit (PMU). The firm’s role is to provide expert guidance and ensure the effective application of the aRBM framework, helping to enhance project efficiency and ensure the achievement of desired outcomes.

31/08/2024

Appraisal Mission Team Visits Tormabum to Assess Progress on Regional Rice Value Chain Project

The Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) appraisal mission team visited Tormabum on Saturday, August 30, 2024, to assess the ongoing activities of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) in the (MAFS).

The visit focused on evaluating the progress of the road and infrastructure funded by and conducting a pre-appraisal for the design of a new project, the Tormabum Industrial Cluster. This project aims to expand infrastructure around 30,000 hectares in Tormabum.

Currently, BADEA is funding the rehabilitation of the road from Victoria to Manokongia and the development of irrigation infrastructure in the 3rd sector.

Mr. Diab Karrar, the Chief Operations Officer of , expressed praise and satisfaction with the project's progress and implementation, highlighting the effective management and ex*****on of the funded activities.

He emphasized that the development of the 4,000-hectare irrigation scheme would significantly boost the program and serves as a model for the planned 30,000-hectare infrastructure expansion.

During the visit, Alhaji Mohamed Sesay, Project Engineer of RRVCP, guided the team through various infrastructure sites, reporting that while the pumping stations for the irrigation scheme have been excavated , the road construction has been slow due to the rains.

The BADEA mission was accompanied by the technical staff from the Ministry of Finance and the Regional Rice Value Chain Project.

Tamba Tengbeh

21/08/2024

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security’s Regional Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) held an engagement with farm-based groups (FBOs) and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) in Tormabum, Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe District. The meeting focused on introducing the Islamic Microfinance loan scheme, which will be processed by Apex Bank.

The purpose of this engagement was to formally inform the FBOs and SMEs, particularly women and youth, about the commencement of the loan scheme and to guide them through the process of accessing these loans from Apex Bank.

20/08/2024

RRVCP Engages FBOs and SMEs on Islamic Microfinance Loan Scheme in Tormabum

**Tormabum, Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe District** – On Tuesday, August 20th ,2024, the of Agriculture and Food Security’s Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) held an engagement with farm-based groups (FBOs) and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) in Tormabum, Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe District. The meeting focused on introducing the Islamic Microfinance loan scheme, which will be processed by Apex Bank.

The purpose of this engagement was to formally inform the FBOs and SMEs, particularly and , about the commencement of the loan scheme and to guide them through the process of accessing these loans from Apex Bank.

Welcoming the project team, the Paramount Chief of Bum Chiefdom, PC Alex Maada Kaipumu, expressed the community's excitement about the . He noted that the majority of the chiefdom’s residents are primarily engaged in rice production, with some also involved in cassava farming.

He emphasized the importance of this initiative in empowering the actual farmers and businesspeople within the chiefdom. Chief Kaipumu thanked the Islamic Development Bank and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa for their continued support, which includes irrigation infrastructure, road development, and now, financial assistance to farmers.

Fatmata Binta Jalloh, Agribusiness Specialist at RRVCP, highlighted that the project aims to encourage women and youth to transition from subsistence farming to treating farming as a business, particularly with the availability of the Islamic Microfinance loan scheme.

She explained that the loan scheme, which operates on a profit-sharing basis rather than traditional interest rates, aligns with the government’s Feed Salone program. This program seeks to empower farmers and entrepreneurs, contributing to economic growth and improved livelihoods.

Watta Roseline Beah, Gender and Youth Officer at RRVCP, reinforced the critical role that women and youth play in farming and the local economy. She stated that the loan scheme is designed to optimize rice production and support other business ventures, further enhancing economic development in the region.

03/08/2024

Efforts to Strengthen Sierra Leone's Seed System: Regional Rice Value Chain Project Partners with Key Institutions

In a strategic move to bolster the seed sector, the Regional Rice Value Chain Project in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on Tuesday 30th July , 2024 engaged with the Seed Multiplication Programme (SMP) and the Sierra Leone Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCA). The meeting, held in Bo city , focused on enhancing seed multiplication and certification processes, crucial components for the country's rice production improvement.

The gathering aimed to assess the implementation progress under Component C, "Fostering Enabling Policy and Institutional Environment." This component is designed to strengthen national institutions such as the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI), SLeSCA, and SMP, while also supporting the private sector's involvement in the rice value chain.

Project Coordinator Abdulai Bun Wai emphasized the project's commitment to supporting the Feed Salone program. He underscored the importance of certified seeds in reducing rice importation, stating, "We are working towards making Sierra Leone self-sufficient in rice production, and certified seeds play a pivotal role in achieving this goal."

Dr. Robert Chakanda, Executive Director of SLeSCA, provided insights into the agency's efforts to streamline the seed sector. "Our agency is working tirelessly to ensure that certified vendors are available across the districts," he said. The funds from the project have enabled SLeSCA to train over 30 seed dealers and master farmers in quality and standard seed certification. Additionally, a seed satellite laboratory has been established in Bonthe District to further support these efforts.

Edward Gbappie, National Programme Coordinator of SMP, highlighted the challenges faced due to flooding, which impacted the rice cultivated .Despite these setbacks, the project facilitated the procurement of four motorbikes to aid in field operations and the cultivation of additional acreage. Gbappi called for continued support, particularly in rehabilitating 100 acres of Inland Valley Swamps (IVS) and acquiring necessary equipment like tractors.

The discussions will continue to ensure the project's initiatives support the production of breeder and foundation seeds, crucial for achieving large-scale multiplication and certification. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance rice production in Sierra Leone, a key priority of the government.

The multi-stakeholder approach aims to create a robust and sustainable agricultural seed sector, reducing dependency on rice imports and ensuring food security for the nation.

The Regional Rice Value Chain Project is co-financed by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and the Government of Sierra Leone.

Tamba Tengbeh

25/07/2024

Regional Rice Value Chain Project Engages Agribusiness Companies in Tormabum for Strategic Coordination

Bo City, Sierra Leone– On Wednesday, July 24, 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security's Rice Value Chain Project held a crucial engagement meeting with agribusiness companies operating in Tormabum. The meeting, hosted at the project's conference room in Bo City, aimed to foster better synergies and develop coordinated strategies to achieve the project's objectives and ensure sustainability.

The Regional Rice Value Chain Project focuses on creating commercial opportunities for targeted rice farmers, enhancing market access, and fostering long-term relationships with processors investing in the value chain.

Welcoming the agribusiness companies, Project Coordinator Abdulia Bun Wai emphasized the need for strong commitment and innovative business initiatives from the companies. He highlighted the project's goal to work with 7,000 farmers, underscoring the need for more companies to manage the complexities of farming operations effectively. Currently, only three companies are involved, presenting challenges in managing expansive agricultural activities.

Mr. Bun Wai also reported that the project has completed the construction of warehouses and is in the process of installing milling machines and irrigation infrastructure. He stressed the importance of developing a strategic plan for managing these facilities to ensure long-term sustainability. He acknowledged the challenges companies face in plowing the 1,000 hectares of farmland, underscoring the need for collective effort and planning.

Addressing the potential for microfinance loans, Mr. Bun Wai noted that companies can collaborate with farmers to access these funds through Apex Bank, which could significantly bolster their operations.

The Agribusiness Specialist of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project, Fatmata Binta Jalloh, acknowledged the companies' efforts in meeting targets but noted the necessity of addressing flaws and improving strategies moving forward. The project's management unit is committed to achieving its objectives through sustainable practices, requiring close collaboration between agribusinesses and the project team.

Mohamed Tejan Kellah, Chief Executive Officer of Alhajar Company, emphasized that agriculture should be viewed as a business, not a handout or emergency measure. He urged farmers to start approaching farming with a business mindset.

The companies have pledged to collaborate with the project in achieving the specified activities.

The meeting marks a step towards stronger coordination and strategic planning among stakeholders in the Regional Rice Value Chain Project, vital for the project's success and the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Sierra Leone.

Tamba Tengbeh

23/07/2024

IsDB Mission Team Assesses Project Activities of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project in Tormabum

The Islamic Development Bank joint supervision mission team is in Sierra Leone to assess the activities of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

The primary objective of the mission is to inspect various project activities funded by the Bank, particularly the development of 4,000 hectares of in Tormabum to increase rice production.

Upon receiving the team, the Paramount Chief of Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe District, PC Alex Maada Kaipumu, expressed gratitude to the Islamic Development Bank for supporting rice development through the irrigation scheme in Tormabum. He reiterated the Chiefdom's excitement with the contractor and noted that the completion of the irrigation project would significantly boost the Government's Feed Salone program.

Sabiu Auwal, Operations Team Lead for Agriculture and a member of the IsDB mission team, shared his positive impression of the project activities in Tormabum. He highlighted the progress seen in the construction of the irrigation scheme, the rehabilitation of two warehouses, the construction of one new warehouse, two prefab milling houses, two stores, and the rehabilitation of 35 km of road. He emphasized that the completed facilities should be handed over for proper utilization and urged the contractor to expedite the work to avoid delays.

Alhaji Mohamed Sesay, Project Engineer of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project, noted that the contractor, Pavifort Associates, has been fully mobilized for the construction of the irrigation scheme and road rehabilitation since March this year. The irrigation project is expected to last 18 months, while the road rehabilitation will take 12 months.

Mohamed Kamara, General Manager at Pavifort Associates, confirmed that they are fully mobilized for the construction of the irrigation scheme and the rehabilitation of the road from Victoria in Tormabum to Manokioganya.

The mission members include Br. Javed Khan, Senior Agriculture Specialist-LLF (Team Lead), Br. Sabiu Auwal, Operations Team Leader (Regional Hub Dakar), and Sr. Asma Bousdira, Project Management Specialist-1 (Regional Hub Dakar). The team is accompanied by representatives from the Ministry of Finance and technical staff from the Regional Rice Value Chain Project.

Tamba Tengbeh

20/07/2024

I got 7 reactions and 2 replies on my recent top post! Thank you all for your continued support. I could not have done it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

20/07/2024

Regional Rice Value Chain Project Holds 6th National Steering Committee Meeting

The Rice Value Chain Project in the of and held its 6th National Steering Committee (NSC) meeting on Thursday, July 17, 2024, at the Ministry's Conference Hall, Youyi Building.

The NSC is tasked with overseeing, supporting, and advising on the project's successful implementation. The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Kpaka explained the necessity of a mid-year NSC meeting. He noted that annual meetings often result in projects proceeding without sufficient review. "The NSC is the highest decision-making body for all project activities, providing advice, monitoring, and supervision," he stated. "They help identify new opportunities and allocate funding effectively. This mid-term meeting is crucial to keep each project accountable during the first and last six months of the year. By January 15th, all work plans should be signed, approved, and ready to go. This ensures we are making progress."

Dr. Kpaka also shared concerning news from President Bio, who had recently held a two-hour cabinet meeting on project management. The President announced that any project spending 30% or less of its funding would result in the project manager or coordinator being fired. Consequently, the Chief Minister will now convene bi-annual meetings every six months to review project spending and achievements.

Mr. Abdulai Bun Wai, the Project Coordinator of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project, presented the project's milestones. He highlighted progress in sectors 1 and 2 of the irrigation infrastructure and road construction. He reported that 700 hectares of farmland have been ploughed in Tormabum, and 500 hectares have been seed harrowed.

The meeting was attended by technical staff from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, NSC members, and RRVCP staff.

16/07/2024

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Janeman Amir, Brima Bangura

16/07/2024

IsDB Wraps Up Meeting with Finance and Agriculture Ministers

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Supervision mission team has concluded a wrap-up meeting with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Agriculture, and Food Security to discuss the implementation status of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project. This project is being carried out in Tormabum, Bum Chiefdom in Bonthe District, as well as in Samu and Mambolo Chiefdoms in Kambia District.

During the meeting, the supervision mission team commended the project management unit for the progress made so far and encouraged them to continue working diligently to complete the project within the established timeline.

The Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Musa Kpaka welcomed the supervision team and expressed their gratitude for the team's support. They highlighted the importance of this project in actualizing the Government's Feed Salone program and appreciated the mission supportive supervision to the project.

*F

13/06/2024

Happy follow-versary to my awesome followers. Thanks for all of your support! Alhaji Kamara

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Meeting with FBOs and SMES groups in Tormabum

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security’s Regional Rice Value Chain Project (RRVCP) held an engagement with farm-based groups (FBOs) and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) in Tormabum, Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe District. The meeting focused on introducing the Islamic Microfinance loan scheme, which will be processed by Apex Bank. The purpose of this engagement was to formally inform the FBOs and SMEs, particularly women and youth, about the commencement of the loan scheme and to guide them through the process of accessing these loans from Apex Bank.

The Regional Rice Value Chain Project -MAF S irrigation works have commenced in Torma Bum. This project aims to improve the efficiency and productivity of rice cultivation in the country by enhancing irrigation infrastructure. By providing better water management and distribution systems, the initiative seeks to boost rice yields, support local farmers, and contribute to the overall agricultural development of the Government's #FeedSalone Initiative. #FEEDSALONE #RiceProduction #IsDB

The 2nd ECOWAS Rice Observatory National Stakeholder Workshop ongoing at Bintumani Hotel in Freetown .

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