Sierra Leone Begins New Phase of Agricultural Data Work with 50x2030 Support

Sierra Leone has launched the Strengthening Agricultural Data and Data Use for Policy initiative (AgriData-SL), marking a new phase in the country’s generation, sharing and use of agricultural data. A recent launch event brought together national ministries, Statistics Sierra Leone, development partners, research institutions and civil society to define a coordinated approach for strengthening the agricultural data system, with technical support from the 50x2030 Initiative.

The launch aligns with the Feed Salone agenda, CAADP and the Medium-Term National Development Plan. It lays the groundwork for a new round of 50x2030 data use activities in 2026, building on earlier Initiative-supported work.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, stressed that data should guide planning, budgeting and service delivery. He highlighted joint assessments and the Annual Production and Yield Survey as steps toward more reliable statistics and acknowledged 50x2030’s role in strengthening analytical capacity, data quality and sector planning.

During the technical session, the 50x2030 team shared updates on how its analytical work can support agricultural policy. Partners discussed ways to improve data collection, governance and the use of routine data within national systems. Small group discussions focused on better coordination, clarifying roles and reducing duplication, while participants highlighted the importance of stronger standards, improved data-sharing and building analytical and geospatial skills.

Participants also agreed on early priorities for 2026, including reactivating the agricultural data working group, improving interoperability, updating standards and advancing 50x2030 data use activities in line with national planning.

The event demonstrated strong national leadership and reaffirmed the collective commitment to positioning agricultural data as a strategic asset for food security and rural development. The 50x2030 Initiative will continue to play a key role in supporting these efforts. To learn more about our partnership with Sierra Leona, visit the country page here.