Breaking the Cycle: Sierra Leone’s Agricultural Sector on the Brink of Transformation

Freetown, Sierra Leone — Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, the backbone of the nation’s economy and livelihoods, is witnessing a remarkable surge in investment, technology, and reform—poised to break decades-old cycles of food insecurity and underperformance. A convergence of government commitment, international support, and agri-fintech innovation is unlocking new pathways for farmers, investors, and businesses alike.

Agriculture in Sierra Leone employs about two-thirds of the population and accounts for over half of its GDP. Yet for decades, the sector has struggled with low productivity, reliance on traditional farming methods, and significant post-harvest losses. These challenges have forced Sierra Leone to import about 35% of its rice—its national staple—at a cost of up to $200 million annually, despite the country’s 5 million hectares of arable land.

According to AGRA (the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa), transforming food systems in Sierra Leone is not just about increasing production; it’s about systemic change—investing in youth and women, developing value chains, and ensuring sustainability in the face of climate change. In 2024, the government responded by increasing the agriculture budget from 2% to 7%, aiming for 10%, and launching the ambitious "Feed Salone" initiative. This program prioritizes local rice production, supports the growth of agribusinesses, and focuses on modernizing the sector through policy reforms and public-private partnerships.

A striking sign of change is the recent entry of Evfarmer, a UK-based agri-fintech company, into the Sierra Leonean market. Announced in April 2025, Evfarmer’s online platform enables both local and international investors to directly fund smallholder farmers, providing early-stage capital and technical support. This digital approach brings transparency, efficiency, and traceability, helping bridge the financing gap that has long constrained Sierra Leonean agriculture. “Evfarmer is more than a funding platform—it’s a catalyst for economic transformation,” said Evfarmer’s CEO at the launch event in Freetown. “By connecting investors with verified farming projects, we empower rural communities, increase productivity, and help build resilient food systems.” Evfarmer’s model is well-timed, aligning with Sierra Leone’s drive to move beyond subsistence farming and stimulate agro-processing, mechanization, and the adoption of climate-smart technologies.

Another major boost came in June 2025, when the United States government partnered with Pangea Global Ventures to invest $3 million in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector. The "Catalyzing Investment for Small Businesses" (CISB) initiative is designed to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in agriculture and agribusiness. By providing capital and technical assistance, the program aims to help SMEs overcome the barriers of high input costs, limited access to finance, and inadequate infrastructure. Ambassador Bryan Hunt, speaking at the launch, noted, “This partnership is about more than funding; it’s about building a future where Sierra Leone’s farmers and agri-entrepreneurs can thrive, innovate, and compete globally.” The investment is expected to trigger job creation, particularly for youth and women, and enhance value addition in crops like rice, cassava, poultry, and cocoa. By targeting SMEs, the initiative supports the backbone of rural economies and offers a scalable model for sustainable agricultural growth.

Despite these positive developments, Sierra Leone’s agricultural transformation faces real challenges. Farmers continue to struggle with outdated equipment, limited access to quality seeds and fertilizers, and vulnerability to climate shocks such as drought and flooding. Market linkages remain weak, and post-harvest losses can reach up to 40% for some crops. However, the tide may be turning. AGRA highlights new opportunities for investors: with the government’s increased budget allocation and policy reforms, Sierra Leone is ripe for investments in mechanization, agro-processing, input supply, and agricultural finance. The emergence of platforms like Evfarmer opens up innovative financing models, while targeted donor support, such as the US-backed CISB program, builds the capacity of agri-SMEs and paves the way for broader private sector engagement.

For those looking to enter or expand in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, the message is clear: the landscape is changing. New funding streams, digital innovation, and a government committed to reform make the sector more attractive than ever. By investing in Sierra Leonean agriculture—through technology, finance, and partnership—businesses and investors can help break the cycle of poverty, create jobs, and secure a stake in one of West Africa’s most promising growth stories.

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