Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 2024
In a major step towards enhancing agricultural productivity, Dr. Alfred Seawright, popularly known as “Salone Mandela,” is preparing to deliver advanced agricultural machinery to boost fish feed production and farming operations in Gbense, Gorama Mende, and Nimikoro chiefdoms. This initiative is part of his ongoing commitment to empowering local communities across Sierra Leone.
The announcement was made by Dr. Matthew D. Kpundeh, Project Coordinator for the Dr. Seawright Community Projects, during a visit to an agricultural machinery shop in Hastings, east of Freetown, where technicians are assembling the machines. Among the equipment to be delivered are fish feed extruding machines and hammer mills, which will play a critical role in promoting sustainable farming practices.
Dr. Kpundeh highlighted that Dr. Seawright has long been a supporter of farmers in Sierra Leone, and this latest initiative will further that effort by partnering with local engineers to ensure the machines can be easily maintained. He emphasized the need for locally produced fish feed to reduce dependence on imported products, which often expire before reaching farmers in remote areas. Locally made fish feed, he noted, would lead to healthier fish production and more reliable agricultural output.
“We conducted a test run of the fish feed machine, and it performed excellently,” Dr. Kpundeh stated. “These machines are of high quality, durable, and easy to maintain, ensuring long-term benefits for the farmers.”
This project aligns with the broader Feed Salone initiative, which seeks to bolster food security across the country. Dr. Seawright’s pilot farms, located in Kono, Kenema, and Njala University, are already benefiting from his support, and this machinery delivery is expected to further strengthen local farming communities.
Speaking on behalf of HAM Mechanical Services, one of the project’s partners, Manager Hassan Polo Jalloh shared that their team has been manufacturing agricultural machinery for over 20 years, producing machines tailored to local needs such as fish feed processors and rice mills. He expressed pride in supporting Sierra Leone’s farmers and highlighted the high quality and durability of their locally made products.
“Our machines have been supplied to 90% of farmers from Freetown to Bo,” Jalloh revealed. “We are committed to promoting local content and helping build the future of this country. By supporting local manufacturers, we can ensure more sustainable development.”
With expansion plans already in motion, HAM Mechanical Services has trained over 30 youths in Hastings, reflecting a dedication to community upliftment and skills development. Jalloh further assured the public that their machines, built from stainless materials sourced locally, meet high standards for food processing and contribute to the long-term success of Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
As Dr. Seawright continues to champion rural development, this project stands as a testament to his enduring vision of empowering Sierra Leone’s communities through practical, sustainable solutions.
Bottom of Form