On Thursday 6, November, 2025. NaFRA, in partnership with the Food System Resilience Program and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has officially launched Sierra Leone’s first fertilizer testing and research laboratory at Njala University’s Mokonde campus. The ceremony drew farmers, NaFRA leadership, FSRP representatives, MAFS officials, university authorities, and community leaders, reflecting broad national interest in the shift toward stronger fertilizer oversight and improved agricultural productivity.
NaFRA Executive Director Dr. Andrew BM Koroma described the launch as a major milestone for the country’s farming sector. He thanked the World Bank–funded FSRP for its backing and noted that the new laboratory will give the agency the tools it needs to regulate fertilizer quality, guide proper use, and support farmers with more accurate information. He added that the facility will help ensure fertilizers sold and applied across Sierra Leone meet standards that protect both crops and soil health.
FSRP Project Manager Dr. Keprifi Lakoh underscored the urgency of the initiative. He explained that fertilizer quality directly affects national food output and that the new laboratory will help the country avoid low-quality or unsuitable products. According to him, the facility will provide scientific analysis that matches fertilizers to the country’s ecological zones, improving yields and supporting long-term food security.
Njala University Vice Chancellor Professor Alhaji Mohamed Bashiru welcomed the development and praised President Julius Maada Bio for placing agriculture at the centre of national priorities. He said the laboratory will strengthen research at the university, enhance training for students and professionals, and contribute to the Feed Salone initiative by ensuring that farmers have access to reliable, well-tested inputs.
The ceremony closed with a vote of thanks delivered by NaFRA Senior Fertilizer Inspector Mrs Martha Kaita. She expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio and the Government of Sierra Leone for their continued commitment to agricultural development. She also acknowledged the Ministry of Agriculture, the Mokonde community, Njala University, NaFRA management, and the World Bank for their roles in turning the project into reality.
The establishment of this laboratory marks a significant step toward more informed fertilizer use, better crop production, and a stronger agricultural future for Sierra Leone.

In attendance were NaFRA’s Senior management Team (Dominic J. Kamara, David Tamba Sam, Dr Andrew BM Koroma, Mrs Francess I. Blango)

The ceremony closed with a vote of thanks delivered by NaFRA Senior Fertilizer Inspector (Mrs Martha Kaita).

Executive Director NaFRA – Dr. Andrew BM Koroma