17/09/2025
Njala University Ends Stakeholders’ Engagement on SAFE Project
Njala University has successfully concluded a high-level stakeholders’ engagement meeting on the Sustainable Aquaculture for Food Empowerment (SAFE) Project, an initiative funded by the Millburn Foundation and supported by AquaWoman University. The project, which primarily targets vulnerable communities, has already seen the construction of fishponds at the Njala Campus and the Torwama Campus in Bo.
The Project Manager, Dr. Joseph Foday Bosua, explained that the SAFE initiative is designed not only to empower vulnerable community members but also to contribute to the Government’s Feed Salone program by supplying fish to the school feeding project across the country. He disclosed that the project was officially launched on May 26, 2025, in Bo, and has since been working to establish its facilities and activities.
Project Investigator, Dr. Kpundeh, revealed that by December this year, the project will produce 60,000 fish, including 20,000 catfish and 40,000 tilapia, which will be distributed to vulnerable people while also supporting the Feed Salone program, especially the school feeding initiative.
The Head of Department commended the SAFE project team and encouraged lecturers and community stakeholders to seize the opportunity by establishing their own fishponds. He noted that the SAFE project is currently in its pilot phase, and its future continuity will depend on the level of impact and sustainability demonstrated.
Traditional leaders also expressed their appreciation. Chief Momoh of Njala praised the university, AquaWoman University, and the Millburn Foundation for their foresight and assured that vulnerable people will benefit directly from the project.
Chief John of Torwama went further, stating that if stakeholders embrace and seek an extension of the project, it will not only provide employment opportunities but also help minimize drug addiction among youths in the community. He also pledged a portion of swamp land for the development of a permanent fishpond that would serve the community.
In his closing remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Bashiru Koroma, revealed that he has already acquired land and developed two fishponds of his own. He encouraged lecturers, students, and community stakeholders to emulate this example by investing in aquaculture as a way to ensure sustainability and boost food security. Professor Koroma was widely appreciated for his leadership in steering the university towards projects that not only enhance academic growth but also directly benefit surrounding communities.
The meeting concluded with a group photograph and a guided visitation of the fishponds, where journalists present, together with the Project Manager, witnessed firsthand the progress of the initiative.
Stakeholders described the SAFE project as a timely intervention that promotes sustainable agriculture, supports the school feeding program, empowers vulnerable groups, and tackles youth-related challenges across Sierra Leone.
