The European Union has contributed approximately 265 million Sierra Leonean leones (€11.5 million) to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to strengthen child nutrition and local food systems in Sierra Leone, the EEAS announced on 23 June 2026. More than 25,000 people are expected to benefit from the funding.
The 48-month project will boost production of fortified complementary foods by upgrading four existing food processing facilities and establishing a new processing center in Makeni. The initiative supports the Government of Sierra Leone and WFP in scaling up Nyam Nyam Pap, a locally produced fortified complementary food for children aged 6 to 23 months. Smallholder farmers will receive training in good agricultural practices to better withstand climate shocks, improve post-harvest management, and strengthen market linkages.
Ambassador Jacek Jankowski, Head of the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, said: “This initiative demonstrates how locally driven solutions can transform nutrition outcomes while supporting economic growth. By combining food production, nutrition education and market development, the EU and WFP are addressing the root causes of malnutrition.”
With partner support, WFP has already established four small-scale processing centers in Kambia, Moyamba and Pujehun, employing mainly women and producing up to 40 metric tons per year per facility of fortified complementary food from locally sourced ingredients. Andrew Odero, WFP Country Director in Sierra Leone, said: “Empowering women is essential to improving household nutrition and building resilient communities. Through this project, women are gaining skills, income, and leadership opportunities across the food value chain.”
To date, WFP has supported more than 4,000 children at risk of malnutrition with nutritious locally produced food, and its nutrition awareness initiatives have reached 8,000 people. The initiative is part of the national Feed Salone strategy, through which WFP and the EU are strengthening child nutrition, supporting smallholder farmers, and promoting sustainable economic opportunities for women.
smallholder farmers gain training and market access, improving yields and incomes; women employed at processing centers benefit from skills and leadership opportunities; children under two years receive improved nutrition through fortified foods; and the EU and WFP strengthen their partnership in addressing malnutrition and food system resilience. No prior EU coverage on this specific project exists in the available record.