Agricultural Group Call For Sierra Leone Govt Support
The Polio Tegloma Agricultural Organization at 52 Mano Sewaru Road in Kailahun Town, which is involved in cultivating cassava and processing gari, has called on the Government of President Julius Maada Bio through the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Security (MAFFS) to assist the organization with the food processing activities. (Photo: Chairman Sellu Njawa)
In an exclusive interview with the Chairman of the organization, Sellu Njawa, he disclosed that it was formed in 2004 to advocate for agriculture, health, education and social protection for Persons With Disability (PWDs).
He said the cassava planting, harvesting and processing has helped empower many disabled persons whom, he said, have abandoned street begging and are now living as self-reliant people, adding that currently, they have over 2.5 acres of cassava farm.
Chairman Njawa disclosed that when they started embarking on agriculture, they sourced funds from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), but said unfortunately, the agency ceased operations a year ago.
He however disclosed that they have currently received US$1,500 from the American Embassy in Freetown for gari processing, adding that the Embassy also provided them with a centre for gari processing.
‘’We want Government to popularize the Disability Act,’’ Chairman Njawa said, noting that it would help access funding and live decent lives.
He also called on Government to strengthen the Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs and the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD) in terms of mobility and office equipment.
Chairman Njawa concluded that all disabled women and men in Kailahun District are members of the Polio Tegloma Agricultural Organization and that they are hopeful that with the emergence of the New Direction under President Bio’s supervision, history will change positively for PWD’s nationwide.
By Abdulai Mento Kamara
Stay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!
© 2019, https:. All rights reserved.
