ILRI supports Sierra Leone's livestock sector with high-yield forage seeds, boosting food security

In a significant step towards improving livestock feed availability and enhancing food security in Sierra Leone, the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) presented high-yielding forage seeds and stem cuttings to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. This presentation, underscores ILRI’s commitment to supporting sustainable livestock systems and year-round feed availability in the country. 

The presentation took place during the official visit of the President and his delegation to IITA’s headquarters in Ibadan, Nigeria, in a step toward strengthening agricultural research, technology scaling, and capacity development of national research systems in Sierra Leone. 

During President Bio’s visit to ILRI’s Ibadan facilities, he was deeply impressed by the innovative livestock technologies available for adoption in Sierra Leone, and at his request, after the tour in a brief focused meeting, Siboniso (Boni) Moyo, ILRI's Deputy Director General, and Tunde Amole, ILRI’s Country Representative presented Urochloa ruziziensis seeds and Cenchrus purpureum (BRS-capiacu) stem cuttings. These forages are specifically selected for their high yield, nutritional value, and adaptability to Sierra Leone’s agro-ecological conditions. 

“This presentation marks a crucial step in strengthening our partnership with Sierra Leone and supporting the ‘Feed Salone’ initiative,” said Moyo. “By providing access to these improved forages, we are directly addressing the challenge of feed scarcity, which is a major constraint to livestock productivity. Year-round feed availability will not only enhance livestock productivity but also contribute significantly to food security and economic growth.” 

President Bio's visit to ILRI's Ibadan facilities showcased the institute's cutting-edge research and technologies in livestock management. He expressed keen interest in adopting some of the innovations to transform Sierra Leone’s livestock sector. The presentation of the forage seeds and cuttings is a clear demonstration of ILRI’s commitment to translating research into practical solutions for farmers. 

“Following a successful performance of these forages in Sierra Leone last year demonstrated their potential to thrive in local conditions and significantly improve livestock feed availability,” explained Amole. “We are confident that these improved forages will increase livestock production, seed availability for subsequent seasons, improve livelihoods, and contribute to a more resilient food system through the ‘Feed Salone’ agenda.” 

This milestone visit has created a platform to strengthen ILRI’s partnership with Sierra Leone, working closely with the government and other stakeholders to scale up livestock solutions and ensure a more food-secure and prosperous future for the country and the region.