Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has expressed his ambition for the country to stop importing rice by the time he leaves office in 2028. He made this statement during the swearing-in ceremony of ministers at State House.
President Bio questioned the need for importing food items such as onions when they can be grown domestically in places like Lungi. He argued that importing from overseas only enriches farmers in Europe. He challenged Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, his envoy for climate change and the “feed the nation” initiative, to work with him to achieve this goal. President Bio urged his ministers to think innovatively and deliver for the people of Sierra Leone without making excuses.
The Chief Minister, Dr. David Sengeh, highlighted the achievements of President Bio’s administration in his statement. He mentioned the appointment of ministers from diverse young individuals representing every region in the country. Sengeh pledged that they would work hard to fulfill the promises outlined in their manifesto.
President Bio won the June 24 elections with 56% of the total votes. However, the main opposition party, the All Peoples Congress, has accused the government of stealing the actual election results. As a result, they have chosen to abstain from participating in the parliamentary and local council government.
