Sierra Leone Strengthens Its Path to Rice Self-Sufficiency with the Release of Two New AfricaRice Varieties
- adiomande9
- 14 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Sierra Leone marked a major milestone in its agricultural transformation as His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially released two new climate-resilient rice varieties developed by Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice) during a high-level visit to the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) at the Rokupr Agricultural Research Station on October 9, 2025. This visit, initially scheduled for later in the month ahead of World Food Day, was brought forward to underscore the national priority placed on agricultural innovation and food security.
During the visit, the President launched 30 improved crop varieties—rice, maize, and cassava—developed through years of rigorous research by SLARI in close collaboration with national and international partners, including AfricaRice. The highlight of the visit was the President’s tour of AfricaRice’s rice breeding plots at Rokupr, accompanied by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), the Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCa), and the varietal release committee. AfricaRice scientists showcased advanced breeding lines from both lowland and upland ecosystems, selected for their strong performance under Sierra Leonean conditions.
Among the materials presented, two AfricaRice-developed advanced lines stood out for their superior agronomic qualities. The President selected ART309-B-145-1-5 and ART34-113-3-2-B-1 for national release, later registered by SLARI as ROK 42 and ROK 43 respectively. ROK 42 is an early-maturing (100–110 days), high-yielding variety tolerant to flooding and iron toxicity—traits that directly address key challenges faced by lowland rice farmers. ROK 43 matures even earlier (90–95 days), offers high yields, is drought and blast resistant, and has an aromatic grain quality that appeals to consumers. Both varieties represent significant improvements over traditional varieties such as ROK 24 and ROK 34, which are longer in duration and more vulnerable to major stresses.
These releases offer strategic advantages for farmers: higher productivity, reduced vulnerability to climate shocks, and better adaptability across diverse agroecological zones. By shortening crop cycles and boosting yields, the new varieties will play a decisive role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s food and nutrition security.
Concluding his visit, President Bio emphasized the country’s commitment to science-driven agricultural progress, declaring: “With SLARI’s seven centers, we are turning research into results. These new rice varieties can double yields.”
Following the release, SLARI showcased the new varieties to 92 stakeholders—including farmers, seed producers, and millers—ensuring rapid awareness and adoption. The registration of ROK 42 and ROK 43 in Sierra Leone’s national catalogue marks another impactful achievement in the longstanding partnership between AfricaRice, SLARI, and national institutions. This milestone reflects AfricaRice’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, climate-smart innovations that support Sierra Leone’s—and Africa’s—vision for rice self-sufficiency.