Dr Julius Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has identified research, innovation and technology as the forces that must be harnessed, in order to drive Africa forward.
Bio said this on Tuesday in his keynote address during a Presidential visit to the headquarters of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan.
He said that research, innovation and technology were essential components that would enable Africans to overcome traditional obstacles and hurdles, thereby transforming the future of agriculture in the continent.
He added that leveraging on these would boost efficiency, strengthen resilience and create new opportunities for farmers, businesses, communities and economy at large.
“This call for partnerships, strategic investment and quick adoption which will not only secure the success of individual nations but also advance the entire continent,” he said.
According to the Sierra Leonean President, in Africa, food transformation cannot be defined solely by agriculture potential or by increase food production.
“Food is not only about what we grow, but is deeply connected to economics, health, climate resilience and national stability.
“It is a complex, systematic challenge that requires coordinated effort and actions across multiple sectors on strong political will at the highest level to deliver lasting solution.
“I’m talking about political will; I’m here because I think the political will exist in Sierra Leone to support the country Food System Transformation.
“We are here today to mobilise the expertise innovation and resources necessary to bring about this change.
“My trip to Nigeria reinforces our dedication to innovative ideas that aim to claim world class food system in Sierra Leone where research drives solutions.
“Technology fosters progress and investment opens genuine opportunities for our farmers and agribusinesses.”
Bio further revealed that agriculture remained a backbone of his country economy, engaging over 70 per cent of workforce and with women in the majority.
He said that partnership with IITA was already making significant impact, adding that the collaboration would focus on practical solutions that would actually transform agriculture in Sierra Leone.
He said that his country collaboration with IITA symbolised the future of African agriculture where science, technology and policy work together to achieve sustainable impact.
He charged African leaders, scientists and policy makers to take it as a responsibility to discuss potentials and actively work to unlock them.
“We must be smart to barriers, speed up solutions and ensure that research translates to actions, investments foster to opportunities and technology serves as a tool that farmers can utilise on a daily basis.
“Let us ensure that today’s commitment translate into action,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to IITA and CGIAR for the exceptional work in advancing agricultural research, innovation and food security across Africa continent
CGIAR is a global research organisation that focuses on advancing international agricultural research and reducing poverty, hunger, and malnutrition in developing countries.
In his address of welcome, the host governor, Seyi Makinde said that his administration was actively seeking to strengthen ties with the Sierra Leonean government.
Makinde said that such collaboration would further enhance the capabilities of established research-driven agricultural hub in the state.
He stressed that the research-driven agricultural hub was aimed at significantly boosting agricultural productivity and sustainability by leveraging innovative research and best practices.
