The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has significantly expanded its agricultural footprint, managing 4,837 acres of rice and cashew farms across six sites in various districts. This initiative is part of the military's support for national food security and the Feed Salone program. The sites span Port Loko, Tonkolili, Moyamba, and Bonthe districts, with rice production accounting for most of the land under cultivation.
A recent tour of the farm sites by retired senior and general-ranking RSLAF officers on October 2, 2026, highlighted the scale of the military's agricultural activities. The retired officers, accompanied by Chief of Army Staff Major General Kemoh Tewoh Sesay, commended the progress observed and praised the Ministry of Defence and RSLAF leadership for supporting the government's Feed Salone program.
The RSLAF operates a substantial number of acres in various locations. In Port Loko District, the military manages 565 acres of cashew at Makallay and 215 acres of rice at Mankara, both in Bakeh Loko Chiefdom. Additionally, there are 366 acres of rice at Rumbeh in Kama Soto Chiefdom. Tonkolili District hosts 691 acres of rice at Masang in Mamoutha Mayosoh Chiefdom.
The agricultural sites also extend to Moyamba and Bonthe districts. In Yoni, Kamajei Chiefdom, Moyamba District, and Tormabum in Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe District, the RSLAF manages a combined 3,000 acres, with 1,500 acres dedicated to rice cultivation at each site. This extensive agricultural undertaking demonstrates the military's commitment to supporting the nation's food security efforts.
The Ministry of Defence views the agricultural initiative as a crucial contribution to the Feed Salone program and a demonstration of RSLAF's involvement in national development. According to Section 165(2) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone Act No. 6 of 1991, the armed forces are mandated to participate in national development. Deputy Minister of Defence, retired Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi, emphasized the RSLAF's commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and other partners to advance the government's agricultural program.
The RSLAF's agricultural initiative has garnered significant attention, with President Julius Maada Bio expected to participate in a symbolic rice-harvesting ceremony at one of the RSLAF farm sites later this month. This event is anticipated to highlight the progress made by the military in supporting the nation's agricultural sector and promoting food security.
The RSLAF's expanded agricultural footprint is a significant development in Sierra Leone's efforts to enhance food security and achieve self-sufficiency in rice and cashew production. With the military's continued involvement in national development, the Feed Salone initiative is likely to receive a substantial boost, ultimately contributing to the nation's economic growth and stability.
Key points
- The RSLAF manages 4,837 acres of rice and cashew farms across six sites to support national food security and the Feed Salone initiative.
- The agricultural initiative is part of RSLAF's contribution to national development, as mandated by Section 165(2) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone Act No. 6 of 1991.
- President Julius Maada Bio is expected to participate in a symbolic rice-harvesting ceremony at one of the RSLAF farm sites later this month.
