The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has officially launched its 2026 planting season in Moyamba District, marking a major step toward agricultural self-sufficiency and national food security.
The launch ceremony took place on Saturday, 24 January 2026, at Yonie Village in Kamajei Chiefdom and was officiated by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura.
As part of preparations for the farming season, RSLAF has made an initial 60 percent payment to Nguala Agribusiness Development Company, based in Moyamba Junction, Fakunia Chiefdom. The payment covers the rental of tractors, ploughing, and seed-harrowing equipment for the cultivation of 240 hectares of rice out of a total 400 hectares earmarked for farming at Yonie Village.
During the visit, the CDS also held discussions with the Manager of We-Can-Do-It Solar Services on the introduction of solar-powered irrigation systems to support farming activities at the site.
Lieutenant General Bangura further paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of Kamajei Chiefdom, PC Fayiah Sondufu Brima Souvula IV, where engagements were held with chiefdom authorities and other stakeholders. Discussions focused on mutual benefits surrounding the continued use of the land by the Armed Forces Agricultural Unit (AFAU).
Presenting on behalf of RSLAF, the Assistant Chief of Defence Staff for Legal Services, Brigadier General M.B.S. Kamara, proposed a two-year lease arrangement for the land. The Paramount Chief welcomed the proposal, noting that it would provide sustainable benefits for his people. He also assured that local farmers would be allowed to use RSLAF tractors when available, with only fuel costs borne by the community.
The symbolic launch of the 2026 RSLAF Planting Season aligns with the government’s “Feed Salone” initiative championed by His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the RSLAF. The initiative reflects the CDS’s vision for the armed forces to become self-sustaining in food production, with expectations that by December 2026, RSLAF personnel will be supplied with rice harvested from the project.
