In Sierra Leone, one of the biggest challenges facing young people in agriculture is access to land and finance, limiting their ability to venture into large-scale commercial farming. Yet, with over 62.5% of the population under 25 and nearly 80% under 35 according to Statistic Sierra Leone, the potential for young farmers to transform the sector and drive economic growth is enormous — if given the right support.
In 2024, the Food System Resilience Program (FSRP) met the Yormatah Youth Farmers Association in Kono District, eastern Sierra Leone. Initially, the group was farming on a small plot with limited challenges. But when FSRP stepped in to expand their operations to 100 hectares, land access became a hurdle.
Determined to seize the opportunity, the group negotiated with landowners in Yordu and Kondeya communities, agreeing to return 40% of their rice proceeds in exchange for land. This win-win arrangement secured them FSRP support, which included seeds, fertilizer, mechanization services, and early warning messages through extension advisory services.
Leading the group is 30-year-old Aiah Emmanuel Gborie, a graduate who sees agriculture as a business and a pathway to prosperity. “FSRP changed our mindset,” Emmanuel explains. “They showed us that farming is business, and to succeed, we need to think big. With inputs, market linkages, and training, we now farm more productively. Agriculture has become the bedrock of my livelihood.”
Thanks to this support, the group harvested 700 bags of 50kg husk rice. True to their agreement, they gave 40% to the landowners, who then encouraged them to sell part of their harvest to the World Food Programme (WFP) for cash income. Through an MoU signed between FSRP, WFP, and the Sierra Leone Produce Marketing Company, farmers like Emmanuel now have a guaranteed buyer at competitive prices.
On behalf of the landowners, Chief Tamba Fasuluku Karkamoe commended the young farmers for turning idle land into food and income. “They have shown us how productive land can be when cultivated. We are ready to make more land available for large-scale farming,” he assured.
This partnership is not just transforming lives but also strengthening the Feed Salone initiative, as locally grown rice is increasingly used to supply government institutions and support national programs like school feeding. With young people at the center, FSRP is proving that when given access to land, inputs, and markets, youth can lead Sierra Leone’s agricultural transformation — feeding the nation while building sustainable livelihoods.
