By Fatima Kpaka
Bo, Sierra Leone – October 3, 2025: In a decisive move to strengthen financial stewardship within Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) has hosted a high-impact induction training workshop for newly recruited Accountants and Assistant Accountants. The event took place at the De Wizzard Complex, 62 Dambala Road, Bo, and marks a major step in supporting the government’s flagship Feed Salone initiative.
Led by Chief Accountant Mr. Mathew Sellu Yokie, the workshop drew national attention and featured a keynote address by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka. In his remarks, Dr. Kpaka underscored the vital role of financial accountability in driving agricultural productivity and food security.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and sound financial management is the spine that keeps it upright,” Dr. Kpaka declared.
🎓 Building Capacity for District-Level Impact
The training targeted accountants from the Accountant General’s Department (AGD) and the Ministry of Finance, equipping them with the tools and strategic insight needed to support District Agricultural Officers (DAOs) and local councils.
Technical sessions were delivered by seasoned experts, including:
- Mr. Sankoh, Director of PEMSD, on the structure of District Agriculture Units
- Mr. Salieu Jalloh, AGD Representative, on district accountants’ roles
- Mr. Adams S. Kargbo, Director of Fiscal Decentralization, on transparency and accountability
- Mr. Habib Kebbie, Head of Internal Audit at MAFS, on internal controls and audit practices
- Audit Service Sierra Leone, on retirement of advances and liquidation procedures
🌾 Strategic Focus on Feed Salone
The workshop culminated in an in-depth session on the Feed Salone Program, led by Mr. A.Y. Mansaray, Director of Extension at MAFS. Participants explored the program’s structure and objectives, with emphasis on the critical role accountants play in ensuring its success through sound financial practices.
This induction marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s agricultural reform efforts. By empowering financial officers with the right skills and knowledge, MAFS is laying the groundwork for greater accountability, efficiency, and impact at the grassroots level — a foundation essential for sustainable development and food security.