Sierra Leone-based Njala University and Oklahoma State University, which is based in Stillwater, Oklahoma, U.S.A., recently launched a sustainable fish-farming project in Sierra Leone, aiming to enhance food security and nutrition while also creating employment and educational opportunities in the West African nation.
The project, announced on 26 May, aims to produce and distribute 30 metric tons of fish annually and is designed to provide high-protein food sources to vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly.
“The project includes plans to expand from 12 to 48 fishponds and to produce fish feed locally, ensuring self-reliance and reducing the cost of aquaculture inputs,” Njala University Vice Chancellor and Principal Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma in a statement. “A facility is being prepared with equipment to manufacture fishmeal for both community distribution and commercial use.”
Besides providing food security, through research, training, and sustainable practices, the partnership additionally seeks to engage local youth in aquaculture-based employment and education.
According to Korma, the project was conceptualized at Njala University and further developed through strategic collaboration with Oklahoma State University.
“[Njala] University envisions empowering students to become graduate farmers and turning aquaculture into a community-driven economic opportunity,” he said.
Professor Karl Rich, the director of Oklahoma State University’s Master of International Agriculture program, praised the Njala University staff’s commitment to the project, saying their enthusiasm increases the chances the project makes a long-term impact on the community.
Authoritative figures within the Sierra Leone government have also encouraged the project.
Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara welcomed the initiative, describing it as a tangible step forward in advancing the government’s “Feed Salone” agenda, which aims to boost agricultural productivity and increase food security.
Haja Isata Abdulai Kamara, the nation’s deputy minister of fisheries and marine resources, confirmed her ministry’s commitment to supporting inland aquaculture, calling the project “historic” and vital for restoring Sierra Leone’s rivers from the impacts of pollution and overfishing.
Source: https://www.seafoodsource.com/news/aquaculture/njala-oklahoma-state-universities-launch-aquaculture-initiative-to-boost-food-security-in-sierra-leone