The World Food Programme (WFP) and Njala University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen food systems and enhance agricultural research, focusing on climate-smart agriculture and food security.

The partnership, aimed at supporting the FeedSalone initiative, was formalized at the Njala University Secretariat.

The agreement was signed by WFP Country Director Yvonne Forsen, accompanied by Programme Policy Officer Hannah Caminada, and Professor Bashiru M. Koroma, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University. Forsen emphasized that the MOU would establish a framework for cooperation to achieve common goals in food security, research, and agricultural development.

The collaboration will offer master’s and PhD students the opportunity to conduct research in areas such as school feeding, asset creation, and livelihood improvement within WFP’s ongoing programs. The MOU also provides a platform for internship opportunities at WFP, allowing students and graduates from Njala University to gain hands-on experience in global humanitarian efforts.

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In addition, the agreement includes technical guidance on revegetating Inland Valley Swamp (IVS) water catchment areas. This guidance will focus on selecting tree species with high water retention capacities to ensure sustainable environmental management practices.

Both parties will work together on yield studies for key crops like rice and Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potatoes, critical to enhancing food security and agricultural productivity in Sierra Leone. The MOU also outlines support for integrating fish farming with IVS cultivation, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Professor A.A Otesile, Head of the Department of Forestry and Wood Science at Njala University, expressed pride in the partnership, noting that it had been two years in the making and is now a significant step forward.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Bashiru Koroma welcomed the initiative, stating it would empower Sierra Leonean youth, making them more self-reliant and employable. Dr. P.D Musa, Dean of the School of Natural Resources Management, underscored the importance of the MOU in strengthening collaboration and advancing shared development goals.

This partnership marks a significant step in addressing the challenges of food security and climate change in Sierra Leone, with both WFP and Njala University committed to building a more resilient agricultural sector.