NaCSA Commissions Agricultural Machinery and Business Commodities to 1,240 Beneficiaries...

Kenema City Field, 27th February 2025* - The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) officially commissioned and handed over agricultural machinery and business commodities to 62 beneficiary groups, representing 1,240 members. This significant event aims to enhance the agricultural capabilities and economic opportunities for local communities, as enshrined in the Feed Salone agenda.

In his welcome address, Chief Sadique Kalia noted that the people of the Eastern Province and beyond welcome the delegates from the NaCSA, Apex Bank, State House, and all dignitaries who made it possible to grace the occasion. He reaffirmed that the beneficiaries are committed to ensuring that the agricultural equipment and business commodities will be used for their intended purposes.

In his statement, the Commissioner of NaCSA – Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, emphasised that the commissioning of machinery and various commodities significantly reflects the international reputation and diplomatic engagement of His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio. He elaborated that the Islamic microfinance initiative is a crucial component of the GIENTRINK (SLCCD) project, which is collaboratively funded by the Government of Sierra Leone and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).

The Commissioner reiterated that this project in the Kenema district will primarily benefit women, covering the Nongowa and lower Babara Chiefdoms. *‘’Plans are underway to replicate this initiative in another part of the country. Additionally, it was mentioned that the construction of the Community Court Barry in Largo Jassawabu has begun and is making progress, reflecting the capabilities of His Excellency the President’s "Tok and Do" agenda.’’* He mentioned.

*Beyond this project, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) have funded multiple renewable energy platforms; five rural water supply networks, seven water conservation and irrigation systems, seven community resource centres and modern markets, developed and improved 150 kilometres of feeder roads, rehabilitated and cultivated 1,500 hectares of boli lands, and restored and cultivated 603.38 hectares of Inland Valley Swamp (IVS) and we have additionally distributed 250 kg of hybrid seed rice to farming groups in Lower Bambara in Kenema District, Ribbi and Bagruwa in Moaymab District, Khalifa Mabang and Kunike Sanda in Tonkolili District, BKM in Port Loko District, and Dibbia in Karene District.* Commissioner Ndomahina ended.

Speaking on behalf of His Excellency the President, the Presidential Adviser on Gender, Md. Isata Jabbie Kabbah highlighted the President's unwavering commitment and proactive involvement in promoting women's issues in Sierra Leone. She emphasized the importance of developing the nation’s human capital and empowering all Sierra Leoneans to actively engage in the "Feed Salone" initiative to enhance food security and self-sufficiency.

During her address, Md. Jabbie Kabbah expressed the President's warm greetings to key stakeholders, program beneficiaries, and the residents of Kenema. She specifically acknowledged the vital role played by the NaCSA Women’s Forum in facilitating these efforts, noting the impressive collaboration and unity between the Commissioner and his Deputy.

She urged the beneficiaries to utilize the resources and support they provided wisely, stressing that their responsible management of these benefits is crucial for the overall success of the Feed Salone Agenda. By doing so, they can help ensure a positive impact on their communities and contribute to the nation’s goal of sustainable development and food security.

The Kenema city field was bustled with activity as beneficiaries, representatives from the beneficiary communities, high-ranking officials from various government ministries, departments and agencies, members of the private sector, media representatives, and various stakeholders from Kenema and the eastern province gathered for this momentous occasion.

*For further information on this and other matters, please contact:*

*The Information, Education and Communication Unit*

*+23277022709/+23230518539*

*umarusamai@nacsa.gov.sl /johnfornah@nacsa.gov.sl*