SIERRA LEONE
Country Overview
IITA began its research work in Sierra Leone in January 2009 in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) and Njala Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) of the University of Njala. Through the Developing Capacity for Agricultural Research for Development (C4R4D) project, the institute is strengthening research capacity in agriculture and environmental sciences by increasing the number and quality of qualified agricultural science graduates. This investment in human capital enables the generation and dissemination of research outputs that address the needs of smallholder farmers and other actors in the food system.
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In addition to capacity building, IITA Sierra Leone focuses on improving the cassava value chain by promoting mechanized processing, adding value to cassava roots, and linking farmers to markets and improved agronomic practices. The institute also supports regional and national partners through initiatives such as the Regional Strategic Analysis and Knowledge Support System in West Africa (ReSAKSS-WA Phase III), enhancing research capacity and facilitating evidence-based agricultural development across the region.
Location
Freetown
Freetown, Sierra Leone
SLARI Building, Tower Hill, PMB 134, Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Tel: +234 07008004482, +1 201 6336094
Contacts
Prof Michael Abberton
m.abberton@cgiar.org
Isatu Bailey
i.bailey@cgair.org
Director, Western Africa Hub
m.abberton@cgiar.org
FOCUS AREAS
IMPACT HIGHLIGHTS
IITA’s work in Sierra Leone are driving tangible improvements in the country’s agri‑food systems. Through research, innovation, and capacity development, our work strengthens food security, boosts crop productivity, promotes climate-smart practices, and empowers farmers and agribusinesses — with a focus on youth and women.
Partners
IITA partners with government, research institutions, the private sector, and farmers in Sierra Leone to enhance food security, crop productivity, seed systems, climate-smart practices, and agribusiness, with a focus on youth and women.
- Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI)
- African Development Bank (AfDB)
- Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS)
- World Bank (WB)
- Sierra Leone Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCA)
- IFAD
- International Soil Reference and Information Centre (ISRIC)
- Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA)
Publications
Genetic diversity of provitamin-A cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in Sierra Leone
sub-Saharan Africa
Genetic diversity and population structure of soybean lines adapted to sub-Saharan Africa…
Related News
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IITA scientist Paterne Agre wins prestigious 2026 Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers
IITA’s Molecular Breeder and Bioinformatics Scientist, Dr Sourou Angelot Paterne Agre, is named one of three recipients of the prestigious 2026 Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers!

IITA scientist Eyitayo Ogbon wins inaugural ICIPE special prize 2026
African agricultural research continues to explore practical ways to make livestock production more affordable and

Native fungi offer a powerful solution to aflatoxin contamination: a landmark contribution from IITA
Scientists from IITA–CGIAR have published a comprehensive review of aflatoxin biocontrol in the Annual Review of
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