WFF Sierra Leone Youth Chapter engages youth at Njala University in climate-smart agriculture workshop

The World Food Forum (WFF) Sierra Leone Youth Chapter collaborated with the School of Agriculture at Njala University to host a youth engagement event on climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and sustainable agrifood systems. Held on 21 June 2025, the event brought together students, researchers, farmers and policymakers to discuss climate smart agriculture as a tool for resilience and innovation to transform the country's agrifood systems.

“This workshop is not just a conversation, it is a movement that invites students to be changemakers in food security and climate resilience”, said Alimamy Kamara, Chapter leader, opening a dynamic event on CSA at Njala University.

Dr Moses Daramy, CSA specialist, delivered the keynote address, calling on youth to take the lead in tackling environmental challenges. A panel of student innovators in agri-tech and sustainability followed, sharing practical ideas for climate resilience. Participants also took part in a hands-on CSA field demonstration led by members of the Chapter.

Professor Suluku, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, highlighted CSA’s critical role in climate mitigation and food security. Sheriff Bangura, President of the School of Agriculture Society, emphasized the link between climate change and soil degradation, calling for policy support. Hassan Lavalie, a youth advocate for agri-innovation, spoke on the power of youth-driven innovation to modernize farming and promote sustainability.

Participants gained skills in sustainable farming, soil and water management, and community-level action for climate resilience. The workshop also increased student engagement and led to the launch of the WFF Njala club at the university. Soil sustainability was identified as a critical area for intervention and fostered partnerships between academia, communities and policymakers.

The Chapter plans to expand its outreach to other regions and integrate more hands-on activities such as tree planting and farming demonstrations into future events. The Chapter also aims to advocate for the inclusion of CSA in national policies and create more platforms for youth to showcase agricultural innovations.

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