Sierra Leone, October 4, 2023: Recent weekly price updates from districts including Bo, Bonthe, Kenema, Tonkolili, and Bombali have highlighted a concerning trend, signaling a rapidly growing issue of food insecurity across the nation. These district figures offer a glimpse into the broader price scenarios, even in the Western Areas.
Reports suggest that Sierra Leone is increasingly grappling with the pressing challenges of food insecurity, a situation that, if not addressed, could have dire consequences. The lack of food security, termed by some as a ‘bloodless, relentless, and biting war’, is undermining the country’s peace, stability, and security.
In light of these challenges, experts and concerned citizens point to a singular solution: bolstering agricultural and agribusiness activities. Joseph Bryan Alpha, an advocate for sustainable farming, emphasizes, “Without a serious commitment to agriculture, our democracy is at risk. There’s an evident need to move away from superficial approaches to farming and genuinely embrace it as both a profession and an entrepreneurial venture.”
Alpha further warns against the sinister manipulation of the situation by certain political entities for their gain, jeopardizing both the present and future generations. His impassioned plea resonates with a broader sentiment: “Regardless of one’s socio-economic or educational background, whether resident in Sierra Leone or the diaspora, every individual can play a role. It’s time to immerse ourselves in genuine, professional, and practical farming.”
Drawing parallels with Western nations, China, and Russia, Alpha reminds the populace that these countries prioritized agriculture during their challenging times, paving the way for their subsequent industrial revolutions. Their unwavering commitment to farming has since underpinned their stable and peaceful democracies.
As Alpha articulates, “There’s no magic solution. Practical, professional, and realistic agricultural and agribusiness endeavors are our path forward.”
Mattru Jong Town Price updates
1. Imported rice per bag – Le720 and per cup – Le4,500
2. Palm Oil per jerrycan: Le460,000 and per pint: Le20
3. Masankay per jerrican: Le250,000 and per pint – Le6,000
4. Groundnut per cup – Le10,000
5. Gari per bag: Le800,000 and cup is Le3,000
6. Native new rice: Le7,000
7. Raw Cassava per pile: Is between Le10,000 – Le20,000 it’s all depending on the quality of the cassava
8. Plantain fruits: Le25,000 for 6 plantain fruits
9. Honey per pint: Le25,000
10. Ginger per pile: Le20,000
11. Cola nut per bag: Le1,500,000
12. Coconut oil per pint: Le30,000
13. Raw pepper measured in an Onions bag: Le1,500,000 and per cup is Le10,000
