Deputy Speaker Exposes Corruption in Agriculture Ministry, Calls for Reform

By Benjamin S Conteh 

During the debate on the Finance Bill on November 14, 2024, Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, delivered a scathing critique of the Ministry of Agriculture, accusing certain officials of systemic corruption and sabotage. These actions, he argued, have stalled agricultural development and undermined food security efforts in Sierra Leone for decades.

Hon. Conteh highlighted that these officials, tasked with fostering growth in the farming sector, have instead delayed the distribution of critical resources such as fertilizers, seeds, and farming equipment. Their mismanagement and corruption, he asserted, have derailed government initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of farmers and achieving national food self-sufficiency.

Decades of Sabotage

The Deputy Speaker traced the roots of the problem back several administrations, emphasizing that the failures in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector are not due to the intentions of its presidents—past or present—but rather the actions of corrupt officials embedded within the Ministry of Agriculture.

“This is not about the leadership of late President Joseph Saidu Momoh, President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, President Ernest Bai Koroma, or even President Julius Maada Bio. The issue lies with the saboteurs within the ministry who have worked against every government’s agricultural agenda,” Hon. Conteh stated.

He revealed that some ministry officials have diverted essential resources, including tractors, fertilizers, and seeds, for personal benefit. These actions, he noted, have crippled efforts to modernize farming practices and boost local food production.

“Some of these individuals have been entrenched in the ministry since the days of President Momoh. Their continued presence and actions have systematically obstructed agricultural progress,” he added.

Mismanagement and Missed Opportunities

Despite significant government investments in agriculture, the sector continues to lag due to inefficiency and mismanagement. Hon. Conteh lamented that these issues have left farmers ill-equipped and unable to meet the growing demand for food. He further criticized the ministry for its inability to implement policies effectively, resulting in the wastage of resources and missed opportunities to develop the sector.

He argued that the delays and lack of transparency in providing agricultural inputs are a betrayal of the government’s commitment to the farming community. “We cannot continue to let a few corrupt individuals sabotage the future of agriculture in this country,” he said.

Recommendations for Reform

To address these challenges, Hon. Conteh called for a comprehensive review of the Ministry of Agriculture, including personnel changes and stricter oversight mechanisms to root out corruption. He also urged the government to focus on empowering local farmers by ensuring timely access to resources and supporting sustainable farming practices.

Furthermore, Hon. Conteh appealed to the Ministry of Finance to reconsider its proposal to increase the tax on rice importation from 5% to 10%. He argued that such a move would place an undue financial burden on citizens, particularly in a time of economic hardship.

“While boosting local rice production is essential, raising import taxes without addressing the inefficiencies in our agricultural system will only exacerbate the struggles of ordinary Sierra Leoneans,” he explained.

A Call to Action

The Deputy Speaker’s remarks underscore the urgent need for reforms within the Ministry of Agriculture. By addressing corruption and mismanagement, Hon. Conteh believes Sierra Leone can unlock its agricultural potential, ensuring food security and economic prosperity for its citizens.

He concluded his address with a strong call for accountability and a renewed commitment to the country’s agricultural development. “The success of our nation’s agriculture lies in the hands of honest and dedicated leadership. We must act now to reclaim the integrity of this vital sector,” he urged.