In a groundbreaking development, Abanga Farms and Food Systems, subsidiaries of the Abanga Group, have signed a partnership deal with the Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) to spearhead a transformative agricultural initiative in Mano River Countries.
This is in collaboration with SEND Ghana, Giz, Mountain Lion, and Africa Rice. The venture, aptly named the Mano River Rice Initiative, aims to harness the untapped potential of rice production within the Mano River Basin of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Ivory Coast.
This collaborative effort, orchestrated by a prominent Ghanaian agribusiness entity, Abanga Farms and Food Systems underscores a commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and empowering local communities. With an ambitious vision to cultivate rice in commercial quantities, the project is poised to catalyse socio-economic growth and alleviate food insecurity in the region.
The Mano River Rice Initiative is projected to generate an impressive 250,000 jobs over the next five years, with a notable emphasis on youth empowerment. Of these opportunities, 70% will be allocated to youth, with a commendable 50% earmarked for young women, thereby promoting gender inclusivity and equitable participation in the agricultural sector.
Moreover, the implementation of this initiative is expected to yield substantial reductions in rice imports, with a targeted decrease of 50%. By bolstering local production capacities, Sierra Leone stands poised to achieve greater self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on external sources.
Abanga Farms, a leading player in the agribusiness landscape, is set to play a pivotal role in this endeavour. With plans to cultivate 50,000 hectares of land in Sierra Leone, the company is poised to usher in a new era of agricultural innovation and efficiency. Notably, Abanga Farms aims to leverage a 60% increase in mechanisation throughout the production and processing stages, thereby streamlining operations and optimising output.
As part of the preparatory phase, representatives from the Abanga Group, alongside MEDA and other private sector collaborators, recently embarked on a visit to the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute. This strategic partnership underscores a shared commitment to harnessing research and innovation to drive sustainable agricultural development.
In light of these developments, stakeholders across the agricultural spectrum are eagerly anticipating the commencement of the Mano River Rice Initiative. With its potential to revolutionize rice cultivation practices, empower local communities, and foster economic resilience, this collaborative venture stands as a testament to the transformative power of strategic partnerships and visionary leadership in the realm of agribusiness.
As Ghanaian entities take centre stage in this landmark initiative, the broader African continent looks on with anticipation, recognizing the pivotal role that agricultural innovation plays in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
