Seasoned Seed Expert the Ideal Choice for Agriculture Minister

By Edwina Sia Janga

Following extensive discussions among citizens on various platforms, including electronic media and social gatherings, there has been a growing call for President Bio to make strategic appointments and remove ineffective officials from their roles. Among the ministries in need of change, the Ministry of Agriculture stands out.

During a recent program on Epic Radio and Slik TV, numerous callers, including panelists, voiced their concerns about the Agriculture Minister’s suitability for the role. They argued that the minister, being a nurse, lacks the expertise required for such a critical position, emphasizing the need for an industry professional to lead the ministry.

In addition to local voices, Sierra Leoneans both within the country and abroad took to Facebook, urging President Bio to select an expert who can effectively implement his flagship agriculture program. Many of these individuals identified Dr. Robert Chakanda, the dedicated Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCA), as the ideal candidate to spearhead the nation’s food security initiatives.

Dr. Robert Chakanda has dedicated over 30 years to the seed sector, both domestically and internationally. His exemplary contributions to other countries’ agricultural development can be harnessed to benefit his homeland, Sierra Leone. As a Sierra Leonean and a native of Kono, Dr. Chakanda’s appointment as Minister of Agriculture would not only strengthen the bond between President Bio’s government and the people of Kono but also demonstrate the President’s commitment to inclusivity by diversifying his cabinet across the nation.

Dr. Chakanda’s remarkable work in the seed sector has resulted in a significant milestone: for the first time in decades, Sierra Leone no longer needs to import rice seed. This achievement has saved the country a substantial amount of money previously spent on rice imports. Dr. Chakanda’s expertise and leadership have also enabled SLeSCA to establish a comprehensive database of farmers, growers, and dealers, ensuring accountability and order in the sector.

If entrusted with the opportunity, Dr. Robert Chakanda is widely believed to turn the ambitious Feed Salone project into a tangible reality. His extensive experience and dedication to the agriculture field make him the perfect choice to lead Sierra Leone’s agricultural revolution.