Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Government of Sierra Leone’s flagship Feed Salone initiative is facing a serious threat due to rampant and unregulated cattle herding. As the planting season begins nationwide, the destructive impact of loose cattle is already being felt by farmers, potentially undermining the country’s food security agenda.
According to a publication by Calabash Newspaper, more than 100 cows were seen destroying 2,500 hectares of rice farms over the weekend, owned by Sierra TEC Agricultural Investment. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Salieu Kanu, expressed deep concern over the ongoing destruction. “Despite our unwavering commitment to the Feed Salone initiative, our investments are being ruined by unchecked cattle herding,” he said.
Kanu emphasized that certain groups of herders appear to be deliberately sabotaging their farmlands, threatening not just the President’s food security vision, but also vital agricultural investments. Sierra TEC recently invested over $500,000 in farming tools, machinery, and high-quality seeds to improve productivity and promote sustainable agriculture. The project was launched with the support of senior government officials and local traditional leaders.
Despite repeated reports to the Police, Ministry of Agriculture, and local authorities, no effective action has been taken. Shockingly, some cattle herders claim they were given permission by higher authorities to let their cattle roam freely.
In a similar development, the Journalists Against Hunger initiative in Kamathun Village, Biriwa Chiefdom, Bombali District, is also facing setbacks due to stray cattle disrupting early planting efforts.
Kanu has made a heartfelt plea for urgent intervention, warning that the situation could lead to serious conflicts between farmers and herders, an issue that has already caused unrest in other nations. Immediate government action is necessary to prevent further disruption and protect Sierra Leone’s agricultural future.
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