As COP30 in Belém draws to a close, the final two days (November 19-20) shine a critical spotlight on Agriculture, Food Systems, Food Security, Fisheries, and Family Farming, alongside the vital cross-cutting themes of Women, Gender, and Afro-descendant communities. These are not just agenda items in Brazil; they are the very bedrock of resilience that SHARP is building in Sierra Leone every single day.

 

For us at SHARP, addressing food security and empowering vulnerable communities is our focus. Sierra Leone faces a projected 30% drop in crop yields by 2050, threatening the millions who live on less than $1.25 a day. Our Agriculture program directly combats this, equipping 89 farmers with sustainable techniques and crucial resources like seed and tool loans. This isn’t just about farming; it’s about safeguarding family livelihoods, ensuring food security, and building climate-resilient practices that empower smallholder farmers – many of whom are women – to adapt and thrive.

 

The emphasis on Women and Gender at COP30 resonates deeply with our work. We know that in Sierra Leone, women and girls are disproportionately affected by climate change, yet they are also powerful agents of change. Our Education program provides vital opportunities for children, particularly girls, who often face significant barriers; UNESCO reports 48% of our population, especially women and girls, are illiterate. By educating future generations and empowering them with knowledge, we break cycles of poverty and inequality that are exacerbated by climate change.

 

Moreover, our Disaster Relief and Safe Housing programs are critical equity measures. When floods destroy homes and disrupt food supplies, it is the most vulnerable – often women, children, and historically marginalized communities – who suffer most. By providing immediate relief and permanent, safe shelters, we protect these families, ensuring their basic needs are met and their ability to engage in farming and community life is restored.

 

SHARP’s approach aligns perfectly with COP30’s closing message: true climate resilience must tackle the roots of inequality, strengthen food systems, and empower those most affected. We are committed to building a Sierra Leone where every family has access to food, security, and a future free from the devastating impacts of climate change.