Agriculture in Sierra Leone
Agriculture, livestock, and forestry are significant economic sectors in Sierra Leone, accounting for more than 60 percent of GDP. Two-thirds of the population is involved in some form of agriculture.
In 2004, AYM conducted a feasibility study in Sierra Leone to determine the strategies for the first chapter of the Movement. In addition to other research, the feasibility study concluded that the most significant areas of opportunity in the private sector of Sierra Leone are agriculture and tourism.
Much of the land in Sierra Leone is very fertile, yet foodstuffs are one of the country’s main imported goods. There is a strong need to introduce new vegetables and fruits to Sierra Leone, especially short-duration and high nutrition varieties. Routine planting will yield continuous produce and improve the population’s overall health.
Facts About Sierra Leone And Agriculture
Rice production has increased by 35%, and cassava and sweet potato production by 34%, while palm oil, coffee, and cocoa have also seen an upswing. [UN Africa Renewal]. Local rice production alone contributes to 75% of agricultural GDP [Report for Food and Agricultural Organisation]
- Country: Sierra Leone
- Capital: Freetown
- Area: 71,740 sq km
- Land use: arable land: 7.95%; permanent crops: 1.05%; other: 91% (2005)
- Major industries: diamond mining, small-scale manufacturing (beverages, textiles, cigarettes, footwear), petroleum refining, small commercial ship repair
- Agricultural products: rice, coffee, cocoa, palm kernels, palm oil, peanuts, poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs, fish