Agriculture is a key source of income and a major driver for economic growth in West Africa. In countries with high demographic growth and vast farmlands, like Sierra Leone, technology innovation has become increasingly important for social and economic development.  The European Union (EU) is committed to supporting countries in their transition towards a modern, resource-efficient and competitive economy. The Agro-tech initiative recently launched in Sierra Leone aims at promoting green and circular economic growth. Similar experiences in neighbouring countries, like Ghana, have demonstrated exponential social and economic benefits and advancements. EU agro-tech initiatives in Ghana contributed boosting Ghana’s agriculture industry by promoting new technologies and sustainable practices, aiding the nation in…

Agriculture is a critical component of West Africa’s economy, a region composed of a variety of ecosystems that provide suitable land for food production. For decades, Sierra Leone has however seen a steady decline in agricultural sustainability and innovation due to outdated agricultural practices, land degradation and climate change. Despite its abundance of favorable natural resources including its tropical climate and heavy rainfall, Sierra Leone has as a result become one of the region’s most economically endangered countries. Sierra Leone enjoys a diverse environment with suitable land for the cultivation of a wide range of food and commercial crops as well as for livestock production. The agricultural sector accounts for…

WOMEN HOLD UP HALF THE SKY The effects of global warming are now very glaring and cannot be ignored. We can see the increase in natural disasters, increased heat, drought and insect outbreaks, all linked to climate change, with increased wildfires, declining water supplies, reduced agricultural yields, health impacts in cities due to heat, and flooding and erosion in coastal areas are additional concerns.  Humans have been the leading cause of these negative effects, it has taken the concerted efforts of climate change activists, environmental leaders and innovators to help raise awareness and suggest solutions to all. One changemaker that is contributing to this effort is an outstanding  female entrepreneur. She is a…

This call for proposals under the Agro-Technology development Initiative is launched by the European Union Delegation to Sierra Leone. It is a uniquely competitive opportunity being offered to Sierra Leonean organizations and SMEs seeking to develop and/or expand sustainable agro-processing and agribusiness innovation and technology. A variety of funding support aimed at enhancing sustainable agro-industry development is available. Award amounts will range from EUR 100,000 to EUR 2,000,000.  Historically, financial systems in West Africa have had hesitancy in providing financial support and guidance to agriculture SMEs. With the European Union’s support, financial inclusion will encourage and strengthen the potential of digital financial services at macro, meso and micro levels notably…