The European Union (EU) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have partnered on a new initiative to strengthen child nutrition, support local food production, and improve livelihoods in Sierra Leone. The programme is expected to benefit more than 25,000 people through investments in food processing, farming, and nutrition support.
The four-year project will expand the production of fortified complementary foods for young children by upgrading existing food processing facilities and establishing a new processing centre in Makeni. The initiative supports the wider rollout of Nyam Nyam Pap, a locally produced nutritious food designed for children between six and 23 months of age.
The programme aims to address malnutrition by strengthening local food systems and improving access to affordable, nutritious products. Smallholder farmers will receive training in improved agricultural practices, climate resilience, post-harvest management, and stronger connections to markets.
Existing community-based processing centres supported by WFP have already helped create employment opportunities, particularly for women, while producing fortified foods using locally sourced ingredients. The expansion of these facilities is expected to increase local production capacity and strengthen sustainable supply chains.
The partnership also focuses on empowering women through skills development, income generation, and leadership opportunities across the food value chain. By supporting local businesses and farmers, the initiative aims to create long-term economic benefits alongside improved nutrition outcomes.
Through this collaboration, the EU and WFP are contributing to Sierra Leone’s Feed Salone strategy, which promotes food security, stronger agricultural systems, and sustainable economic opportunities. The programme highlights the importance of locally driven solutions in reducing malnutrition and building more resilient communities.
