Freetown: The Ministry of Agriculture Food Security (MAFS) has launched the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation (GATF) ePhyto Project, marking a significant advancement in Sierra Leone's agricultural sector. This initiative, introduced on April 14, 2026, aims to replace traditional paper certificates with electronic equivalents, streamlining the process of agricultural commerce.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the project is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) through the ministry's Crop Protection Unit (CPU). The event, held at the ministry's conference hall, signifies the country's shift from manual documentation to digital verification. The implementation of electronic phytosanitary certificates is expected to enhance shipment tracking and improve the risk response capabilities of plant health authorities.
Deputy Minister II, Mr. Sahr Hemore, spoke on behalf of the Minister, commending the collaboration with GATF and FAO. He highlighted the essential role of the CPU in driving this transformative shift, which promises to boost efficiency, transparency, and reliability in agricultural trade. Hemore confirmed that the implementation mission began its work in Freetown on April 13 and will continue through April 17, laying the groundwork for the project's success.
The digital rollout is anticipated to bring significant benefits to the nation by reducing delays and costs associated with agricultural trade. The government has pledged to provide the necessary policy guidance, institutional support, and coordination to achieve the project's objectives.
Laura Garrone, the GATF Project Manager, underscored the importance of modernizing plant health verification to facilitate agricultural commerce. She praised the government of Sierra Leone, particularly the agriculture ministry's Crop Protection Unit, for their strong engagement and leadership in launching this initiative.
GATF aims to unite public bodies, private enterprises, and development partners to deliver practical reforms. By maintaining a focus on dialogue and shared ownership, the initiative seeks to ensure sustainable solutions that address operational needs.
Professor Abdulai Jalloh, Chief Agriculture Officer at the agriculture ministry, expressed support for the electronic certification effort. He reaffirmed that the Ministry's 'Feed Salone Project' remains committed to enhancing exports.
The event concluded with presentations from GATF representatives Laura Garrone and Amine Belkhadir, alongside Alie Mansaray, Head of the agriculture ministry's CPU, covering global electronic verification systems and their local benefits.