Source document: https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1698080158709.pdf (Sierra Leone)
BILL Sapplement io the Sierra Leone Gazette Yol.

CLXIII No.

23 dctted 20th April, 202j No.

2023 Sierra Leone A BILL ENTITLED TI{E SIERRA T,EONE AGRICT'LIt,RAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE ACI, 2023.

Short title.

Being an Act to repeal and replace the Sierrs kone Agrlcultural Research InstituteAct of2007 (Act No.
25 of2007), to provide for stronger gov€rnaoce of agriculturol reseerch, inrnqgement, community outr€acll and commercialisation futrctions ofthe Institute, to provide for the rppobtment of a Deputy Director-General for Research and forcommerrialkation rnd Imovation and Deputy Dir€ctor-General Business Development respc.ctively, and to pruvide for other related mattelr3.

imovatbo, budn€ss drrdopma tl Datc of cosr- mencement.

llc The Sicna laonc Ag,.icubural Research lrlstitute Act, 2023 Intcrprctation.
PARII.PRELIMINARY l. In lhis Act uoless the conlext otherwise requLes - "agriculture" means the practice ofcultivating the soil, growing crops, or raising livestock for hrmnan use, including the production of food, feed, flbre, fuel or other usefi products; 'Appointments, Promotions and Performance Committee" meam the Appointments, Promotions referred to in Section and Performance Committe€ l8; "Commercialisation and Business Development Committee" means Commercialization and Business refered to in Section 27: Development Commifi€e "Council" means the policy making authority ofthe Institute referred to in SectioD 6; "Director€eneral" means the Director-General of the lnstitute appointed mder section 3l; "Finance and Compliance Committee" means Finance and Compliance Comrnittee refened to in Section "Institute' means the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute referred to in sectio:r 5; "K.nowledge and Imovations Committee" means the Knowledge and lnnovations Committee referred to under S€ction 24; "Management" the management of the Institute referred to under paragraph (b) ofsection 35; I{o The Siefta Leone Agrictbltdl Research lnttitute Act, 2023 J "Minister" means the Minister responsible for agriculture; "National Council of Science ard Technology"/ Directorate of Science, Technolory and Innovation means the National Council of Science and Tecbnology established means the firrtherance, accumulation and improvement of knowledge in the agricultural and related sciences tkough original a n d o t h e r investigations and methods of a scientific nature with the adyancemsnt ofagriculture as its objecq "Staff Disciplinary Committee" means the Staff Disciplinary Committee refened to in Section 3 I ; "Scientific and Technical Committee" means the Scientific and Technical Committe€ section 15. referred to in PARIII-TIIE SIERRA LEONEAGRICULTTJRAL RESEARCH INSTITUIE 2 (l) There is hereby continued in existance the body which continustior immediately before the cornmencement of this Act was known as of Inititui'' Siara Leone Agricultural Rasearch Institule as one of the national research institutes dealing with Science and Technolory whose activities shall b€ coordinated by the Naional Council of Science and Tecinologr-.
@) The Institute shall be a body corporat€ having perp€tual succession and capable ofacquiring purchasing, holding and disposing of property, whether movable or immovable ard of subg and being sued in its corporate nam€ and subject to ltisAct, .

of performing all such acts as Miescorporare may by law perform.

4 Common seal.

NG The Sierla leone Agicuhural Researcl, ln$iate AcL 2023 3.
() The Institxe shall have a common seal, the affixing of which shall be authenticated by the signatures of - (a) The Chairman or othermember ofthe Council generally or specifrcally authorised by the Council for that purpose; and O) The Director-General or other officer ofthe Iastitute au&orised by the Comcil for that purpose.
(2) A document purporting to be an iDstrument executed or issued by or on behalf ofthe Institute and to be sealed with the conmon seal ofthe Institute authenticated in the manner stated in subsection (l) shall be deemed to be so execute4 fi issued without furtler proot unless the contrary is proved.

(3) In appropriate cases, the seal may be affxed to documents oubide of Siera Leone.

4.

(1) The Institute shall have its headquarters in the Westem Are4 which shall be its principal office.
(2) The Institute may, with the approval of Council, establish regioaal or district offices at any location in Sierra Leone, as it considers necessary, PARTII.TI{ESIERRALEONE AGRICUL:TURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE COUNCIL Headqusrtcrs aDd otlet offic.es of Institute.

Council of lnstitute.

5.

(1) The hstitute shall have a Council which shall be the highest policy making authority and shall supervision ofthe Institute.

(2) The Council shall consist of a Chairman and the following other mernbers - IIo.
The SiEta Leone Agricaltural Retearchlnsrihle Act, 2023 5 (a) the ChiefAgricultne Officer, Ministry o f Agricu lture; O) thc Development Secretary, Ministry of Plarning and Economic Developmenq (c) the Chafuman, Sierra Leone Chamber on Agribusiness Developmelt; (d) the Pr€sident National Federation ofFarmers ofSierra lrone; (e) the Dean, Faculty ofAgriculture or related nafiral sciences at an accredited uriversi:y in Sierra kone; (f) the Director-General, Ministry of Environment and Forcsty; G) a representative ofthe Non- Govemmental Agencies; (h) the Chairman, National Science Council o f Science and Technolory of Siera IJon€; O theDilector-G€n€ral; O th€ Depdy Di€ctor-General for Research and Innovation; and (k) the Deputy Director-General for Commercialisation and Business Development.
.ljI 6 No.

The Sicna Leona Ag,.icultural Researchlrlstitute Act, 2023 Chaiinan of Courcil.

6 ( l) The Chairman shall b€ appointed by the President oa the recommendation of the Minister subject to the approval of Peliame , but no person shall be appointed Chaimaq if he has a financial interest, whether directly or indirectly, in a business or undertaking of tle institute.
@) A penon shall opt be appointed Chairman of the Comcil unless he has proved knowledge and professional experience in the field of agriculture or related discipline.
(3) Thc Cbairman ofCouncil shall be the Head ofCouncil and principal authority of the Instihrte, responsible for strategic oversight and guidance of Counci.l and the Insdarte, including - (a) presiding over all meetings and decisions of Cormcil and overseeing the implementation of Comcil decisions by management; (b) frcilitating the development and adoption of policies and guidelines to enhance the quality ofwork done by tlre Institute; (c) delegating assignments to and coordinating the work and ouput ofall Commirees ofthe Councit (d) authorising, on the advice of the Director- General, the execution of partnership agrepments and other major contracts that require tie approval of Council; and (e) supporting Managem€nt with local and international stakeholdgr engagement for rcsource mobilisation for the promotion of tie objects of the Institute.
Fto.

The Sierra Leone Agricultwal Research Institutu Act, 2023 7 7.

0) The Chairman shall hold office for a term of3 yea$ and shall be eligible for re-appointment for a flurher telrtr of3 years only.

T€nure of membets.
T€nure of membets.

@) A person shall coase to b€ a memb€{ ofthe Board m any ofthe following gromds- (a) inability to p€rform the fimctions ofhis office by reason of infmity of mind or body: (b) for proven misconduct; (c) if he becomes bmlaupt or insolvent; (@ if he is convicted and sentenced for an offence involving fraud or dishonesty; (e) ifhe fails to attend 3 consecutive meetings ofthe Cormcil without reasonable cause; (f) if he resigns his office by *ritten notice to the Midst€r.
G) if he ceases to be an employee of the iDstitution which he represents.

8.

(l) The Comcil shall me* for the dispatci ofits busioess, ueeiiogs at least, twice a year at such time and ptaces as determine.d by of council- Council at previous meeting.

(2) The Chairman shall preside at every meeting ofthe Ccuncil, and in his absence, the mernbers present sball appoint 8 member &om among themselves to preside at that me€titrg.
8 NG Thz Siena lcone Agriculhrral Resear.chlnstitute Act, 2023 (3) A majority ofmembers of&e Council may, by notice in $riting sigoed by them, re4uest the Chainnan to summon a special meeting of the Board for such purposes as may be stated in the notic€.

(4) The Chairmar or, in his abserce, the member appoiced to act on his behalfshall summon a speeial meetiog withir 5 days of his receipt ofthe notice reftrred to in subsection (3).
(, The quorum at a me€ting ofthe Council shall not be Iess tfian halfofall the members.

(6) The Chairman or other person presiding shall have a casting yote where there is aI1 equality of votes.
(71 A proposal circulated among all members and agreed to in writing by a two-rhAds majority of all members shall be ofthe same force or effect as a decision made at a duly constituted meeting of the Cormcil and shall be incorporated in the minutes of the next succeeding meeting of the Cormcil: Provided that if a member requires ttat such proposal be placed before a meeting of the Comcil, this subsection shall not apply to such proposal.
(8) The Council may co-opt any person to attend and participate in its deliberatioos on any matter but such person shall not vote on any issue for the decision by the Council.

(9) The Council shall cause mi rs ofallits meetings to be taken and signed by the Chairman and kept in proper form.

(10) Subject to this Act, the Board shall rcgulate its own procedure.

Nc The Sierra leorz Agricultutal Research Institute /1cr, 2023 9 9.
(l) A membff ofthe Couicil *,ho has an interest, *'hether Disclosurs ofdLect or irdirect, in a ma$er being considered or to be considered interest hy the Council, shall discloseth€ nature ofhis interest to Ih€ Council ard the disclosure shall be recorded in the minutes ofthe Council afld such member shall not take part in a deliberation or decision of tlie Council relating to that matter (2) A member ofthe Council $,llo conlra\€nes subsection il) shall be guilg of misconduct and shall be removed from the Council.
10.

(l) An action or other proceedings shall not iie or be lortuu.it!

.lf instituted against a member of&e Council or mernbet of a committee members of dre Council for or in respect ofao act or rhing done or omitted to be done in good faitb in the exercise ofhis fimctions under dris Act.

(2) A member ofthe Council shall not be personalb.liable for any debt or obligation ofrhe Agency.

PARI N'-CONT\IITTEES OF TI{E COUN-CIL ll.

(l) The Council ma),.


for 0re discharge of its fifictions c-ommirteei uadcr thisAct, appoint cornmitte$ and sub-comiriuee.
to p"rfo.rn of c*"il' srich functions as the Council shall det€mline (2) A commi$ee ofCouncil appointed under subsection i i,, shail- (a) meet ai least 2 times a year for the discharge of their respective functions under this Act, aod present reports of their deliberations, recommendations and proposals tbr new policies, guidelines, research programnles and other plans to Cormcil for approval: No fhc Sietrt Lco\z Agricuitural RetecrcA lttst;tule .1d, 2O2J (b) co-opt members or non-mernbers ofCormcil and set up srrb-commitees ir carryiug out iB functiots und6r this Act; aJd (c) c€ase to exist at :he eod of the tenure of Council.
(4) CDunc may, upon the approvsl of majority of its members ar a general meeting appoint ad-hoc committees, rvhich shall cease to e\ist at the end ofh€fu assignruenl to carry out specific assignments on behalf ofCouncil.

(5) The quorurn for a Comtnirtee ofCouncil shall not be lessthan hallof total number of nrembers of the Conrfi ittee.
(6) Decisions ofCommittees ofCouncil shall be taiien by dle majority ofvotes cast by m.mbers present ar a properl)' corrstituted meeting, each member present at a meeting shall he entitled to one vote and in the event ofan equality ofvotes th€ Chairmsri or Fersoo presiding shall hale a casting vote.
(7) The Comm.ittees of Corncil appointed under subsection (l), may include - The Sgiqrtilit aI{LIqthn ical Coarnrittre The Scientilic :nd'lechnical Comminee shai.l - (a) be tbe supreme authority far all scientific and technical malte15, lg",poisible tc - (i) liaise with external sllkeholders in publie and privat.
se€tors and to maintain contect \rith narional agricxltu al research needsi Nc 7!e Si*ro Leone -lgricuinral Reseirch l\stitfie lct, 2023 1l (ii) advise on priorities for the research aud developmert prograrurnes of the Institute to ensue maximum quality aDd effectiYeness; ('iiiJ reyielv recorunendations made to the Institute aDd foimulats new research initi3tiveg orr agriculture, national food secrrity, nutrition and food pclic); (ivi review the annual programme of work, including new research programmes, proposals froo the Progtanim€ Commit€es of Research Centres and make apEopriate recommfidations to Council; (\') overs€e the anaual research output, proSrammes aod scientists of the Institute and specific outputs of Research CenE€s, *ith respec!
to their impact oD farmers and farming communities as r{ell as the sciertific communit) i (vi,t nominate outstandhg research and rcsearchers for recognitic'n by Coucii and other authorities; (-r{) prtrvide queliry assuance systems for agriculturalresearch aud related innor-ations, except tlose rondueted b1, or ia collaborarion .,rith accredited ruriversities in Sierra Leone: Na The Sierra Leote .4gricultural Rese(wch lwtilute .4ct.
2023 (viii) develop guidelines for the establishment and development of noD-utriversity research facilities.

includitrg the selection of location, provision of laboratoq facilities and supervisorT requkernenls for major field irstallat- ions and specialised equipment; and (li) perform such other fimctions as Council may determine- (b) consist ofthe following members - (i) The Director-General of Institute.
wto shall be the Chairman: Qi The Deputy Director-General for Research and lnnovatioD, ivho shall be the Secretary; (iD The Deputy Director-General for Commerc ialization and B us in ess Developmenq (ir) 2 directors of research centers of Institute, appointed by the Cormcil, oo an aDnuai rotational basis; (v) The ChiefAgricultural Officer.
lvlinist] of Agriculture: (vi) The Executive Secretary, Natio al Corurcil of Science and Technology: (vii) 2 deans ofthe faculties ofagriculture or rerated natural science disciplines from public universities, appointed by rhe Ministea, on the recommendation of Council.
ensuring gender balance; No The Sietrd Leone Agricultural Research lnstihlte '1c1, 2023 l3 (\'iii) 2 distinguished agriculturalresearthers or agriculturists from t}le private sector, appoint€d by the Minister on tbe recommendation ofCouncil, en suri ng gender balance; and CDO The President, National Federation of Farmers of Sierra Leone.

ADi,oiritlllents.
ProIlloaions apd Perfornlance Committee The Alrpoinunents, PromotioDs and Perfornlance Committee shall - (a) be responsible to Council for overseeing the Authoritv Functions of recruihnent, productivity and mobility of emplol'ees of Institute, including- (i) developing and monitoring the implem?ntation of policies p€rtioent to recruiuaent, performance and mobility of emplol,ees of Institute; (ii) leading the devclopment and review of staff conditions of servlce for consideration and approval by the Council, ensuring that conditions of service are comparable to or better than those used for equivalent ranks ofstaff at public un iversities; (iii) developing criteria ard guidelines for the appoin&nent, performance appraisal and promotion of reseach, administrat- ive aod other support staff of the Institute; t4 No The Sier!,a Ler)n Agtic*ltural fuisedl.ch lr.slit te Ait, 2023 (ir..t developing a slaffappraisal systeur '"hat rvould be used as the basis for promorions, demotions, rerewal of contracts gr terminatioll of contracts: (r') overseeingre,lruifiterrtand p.erfonnance appraisal for ol senior management staff, excepl the Director Geoeral, appointed suliect to secrion 39 and rvhose perlormance shail be appraised in accordance u'ith paragraph- (g): 1vi) rerierving the annual staff appraisal rcports presenrcd by nranagearent and make recomrlendations ro rhe Council 'for the renewal of contracts ard the pmfessional devehpme* of employees of the Institute; (vi.i) conducting rnid-term performance evaluation for Director-Oeneral, in consultation with the Ministe., to determine his suitability tbr re- aPpointsnert; a d (viii) performirg sucli other funetions as Council may derermine.
(b) consist ofthe following mcmbers - (i) A Class II rnember ofcouncil, appointed by Council, *'ho slrell be Chairman; (D 2 other Class II membe$ of Councit, appointed by council; (iii) The Director General ofinstitute: No The Sierra kcne lgriatlt*al Research lnstittte Act, 2023 ti (iv) TheAdministrative Dkectorofltrstitute.

$ho shall be Seci{etar}'i (r) Ihe Finance Director of lnsliinte: and hi) 2 Directors of Research Centcrs.

nominated b)' theDirefior-General.


Finarce an4elqmoliance Com ittee The Finance and Compliance Cornmittee sha-l!
- (a) advise the Council on the effective anagemeDt of finances and in-stitutional compliance ,with relevant national and the internatiotral legal and regulatory requirements ofthe Institute, including - (i) developing and reviewing policies, systems, manuals and operalional guidelines aligned to the releyant laws and policies ofgovernnent, as required to support the prudent maragement sf financial and other resor$c€s of the lrstit,Jte; (i) nodtodng compliance by staf and otlrer officers of the Institute.
to ensure confomfty with tte laws aEd policies goveming public institutions in Sierra Leone and the policies and regulations ofthe Institute approved by Courcil: 1ii| reviewing the amual and quarterl.

"- budg€ts of rhe Institute and nake appropriate recommendations to Council; t6 IYo.
The Sierra leone Agricultural Researctr l,stitute ,{cr, 202t (iv) providing oversipCrt or institutional risk and compliance management and promoting the adoption of best practices in management and administration across the Institute: (v) supporting resource mobilisation initiatives and overseeing allocation and ulilisation ofsuch resorxces by the respective units of the Institut:; (lii) .
appointing an audit sub-commirtee to conduct annual financial and systems audit of the Institute or as required b;r the Council; (vii) reviewing financial and compliance audit repods ofthe Institute anl meldng appropriate tecommendations to the Council; and (viir) perform such other functions as the Council may deternine.

(b) consist ofthe follorving members - G) A Class II member of the Ccuncil.

appointed by Council, who shrrl!
be Chairmalu Gi) The Director-General ofthe lnstilute: (iif Ihe Fimnce Director of Institute, *tlo shall be secretary'; (iv) The Deputy Director-Ceneral for commercialization and bus iness delelopment; No The Siena Leone Agricultural Reseatch Institste Act, 2023 l7 (v) The Deputy Director General for Research and lonovation; (vi) 2 other Class II members ofthe Council; lvii) TheAdminisaative Director of Lrstitute; (viii) 2 directors of Research Centers ofthe Institute, @pointed by Council; and (x) A financial marag€Nnent €xpert co-opted on the recommendation of Council without voting right.
Knowledqe and Innovatiou Committee The Knowledge and Innovation Committee which shall - (a) be responsible oversee the hamessing md dissemination of agricultural knowledge derived from previous md ongoing research prograrnmes of Institute and ensure their effective traDsformation to viable in- novations, ineluding - @ promoting policies, strategies and guidelines to support documentation and dissemination of research findings from the research programmes of the lnstitute; (f developing appropriate policies and guidelitres to ensure that maximum benefic fism the trowle@e capial ind intellectual property of the Institute; l8 No' Th.
Siena Leone lgticuhurdl Research b$titute Act, 2023 GD facilitating national dialogue among stakeholders in the national agricultural research system to promote commutrication and knowledge sharing rhrough farmer outeach extension and short-term t'aining; (iv) developing strategic famework with .
guidelines to facilitate lle active tatrsftr of modern agricultural lnowledge and innovations from the Institute to farmers and farming communities tbrough multiple forms of cooperation between the Institute and the farming community as well as other forms of collaboration with key sgkeholders that support knowledge transfer and diftrsion of agricultual innovations to farning communities; (v) providing periodic updates to the Couocil on the socioeconomic outromes and impact of r€search md innovations of the Institute on the economy; (vi) overseeing the establishment and operation of a national knowledge repository to suppoft farmers, rcsearchers and hnovators; and (vif'performing such other fimctions as the Council may determine.
O) consist ofthe following members - llo Tlc Siena Leone Agriaitwol Rese@ch lratitute Act, 2023 t9 O A Class U memb€r ofComcil, appointed by Cormcil, who shall be Chairman; 0D The Director General ofthe Institute; G, The DQutyDhector€eneral in cbarge ofresearch and innovation, wbo shall be secietaryi (iv) 2 other Class II menabers of Council, appointed by the Council; (v) 2 Directors of Research Centers, nominated by Managemenq and (vi) a senior officer in charge of communication.
Commercialiration and Bllsiness Developm€nt Committee The Commercialisation and Business Development Committee shall (a) be responsible for promoting the commercialisation of research outputs and establisbment ofcommercial entities by the Institute, including - (r) providing the enabling policy and regulatory environment for the commercialisation of research outputs of the Institute; (if overseeing the development and reyiew of annual invesinent plans prepared by Research Centres, programmes enterprises and other units of the Institute and and advising the Council accordingly; x f[o Ihe Siena l,eone Agricltltural Research Institute Act, 2023 (ii) analysing invesfrnent proposals for the establishment of new compaD ies, enterprises, joint ventures or other income g€nerating units and advising the Council accordingly; (iv) ' factlitating collaboration between the Management ofthe lnstitute and other private and public entities to promote entrepreneurship, establishment of commercial outfits and other forms of investnent by the Institute; (v) promoting dlect contribution of the Instihrte to agricultural transformation and youth employment through a national agribusiness incubation programme for university graduates and other prospective agricultural entrePreneurs; and (vi) supporting management with the development and periodic review of resourcc mobilisation strategies to ensue sustainable fimding of the lnstihtte.
O) consist of the following members - @ A Class II member of the Couacil, appointed by rbe Council, who shall be Chairman; (f 2 members ofthe Council, appointed by Council; Gi) The Director General ofthe Institute; NG The Sierra Leone Agrtculwral Reseatch lrrslirure Act, 2023 2l (iv) The Deputy Director G€neral respotrsible for commercialisation aod business development, who will be secretary; (v) The Deputy Director General respolrsible forresearch and innovation; - (vi) The Finance Dircctor of the Institute; (vif The Administrative Director of the Institute; (viif 2 Directors of Research Centers, appohted by the Council; (x) 3 private sector agribusiness development sp€cialists,, nominated by the Siera t €one Cbamber onAgricr:ltne and Industry and the National Fede- ration of Farmers in Sierra Leone, respectively.
The $aff Disciolinan Committee The StaffDisciplinary Committ€e shall - (a) be responsible to advice the Council on matters pertaining to thc general conduct and dlsciplitr€ of the staff of the Institute, including - (i) developing ethical and professional standards for the staff of the Institute and other persons representing or acting on behalfof the lnstitute; 2.
No' The Sierra lponc Agriaitxrdl Research lrstituo AcL 2073 (i) reviewing disciplinary iavestigation reports presented !o the Council; (iD conducting investigation on reports of misdemeanor and other disciplinary infractions by the staff of the Institute and otber persons representing or aaing on behalf of Institute and make recommendations to Council, as appropriate: hovided that disciplinary matters affectingjunior employees ofthe Insftute shall be addressed at Research Centre level andin the case ofjunior stafi at Headquaxters, ttrough the office of the Director General, subject to the right of appeal to the Staff Discipline Committee byjunior employees against whom punitive actions have be€n taken to ensure faimess and aatural justice; and (iv) performing other related duties as Council may assign to it (b) consist ofthe following members: @ The Director-General of the Institute .
who shall be the Chairman; (i| 2 Class II members ofthe Council; CO 2 Directors of Research Centers, appointed by the Council; (i9 The Finance Director; (v) The Administrative Director; (vi) A representative of the junior staff nominated by the Junior Staff Association; and No The Sierra leone Agrtcukural Research Institute AcL 2023 B (vii) A representative of senior staff nominated by the Senior Staff Assoc iation.

PART [I - TNCTIONS OF INSTITUTE 12.


(l) The object for.xhich the Instinrte is established is to Functions serve as the national agricultural technological research body of lnstiturc respoosible to - (a) conduct, facilitate, promote, coordinate aod regulat€ a oational food system through the Food Systems Research Platform; (b) participate in agricultural innovatiors and technolory transfer processes.
(2) The Food Systems Research Platfonn shall comprise relevant slakeholden from such public and private sector institutions as may b€ det€rmined by Council and shall convene at least onc€ a year to discuss challenges facing tle development of research, innovation and extension services in the national food system, identi!

viable solutions and provide other means of support to promote agricultural transformation.
(3) Without prejudice to the generality ofsubsection (l), it shall be the fi.nction of the I stitute to - (a) provrde information tbat will assist govemmentand other stakeholders in the dcvelopment of aglicultural policies for poverty alleviation, food security and improved livelihoods of&e citizens ofSierra l,eone; a Ile The Sierra lzone Ag,iclhwql Reseatch lhstitute Ac' 2023 @) formulate agricultural research policies and programmes taking into accouDt the vision, mission goal and objectives ofthe agriculu:ral seclor in line witl goyeroment policy and the views ofstakeholders, especially those wLich relate to sustainable food security and the conservation of renewable resourtes of Sierra L€one; (c) conduct basic and applied research in the following fields ofstudy - 6) food and cash crop production; (D livestock and inJand fish production; G, foresny and tree qops produclion; (iv) land, waterresources and environmental maragement systems; (v).
value addition and postharvest technologies for food and non-food products; (vi) science of food, nutrition and relarcd technologies; (vii) plan!

animal health and biosafety; (viD breeding genedcs, genetic resources atrd biotechnolog/; CDO environmental conservation; E) digital and other emerging technologiqs in agriculture i No.
The Sierra l*one lgticul*ral Research lnstitxte Act, 2023 t x 0q) socio-cultural, economic and policy analysis of agricultural systems; (xD agricultural commercialisation, agribusiness, agripreneurship, and agro- indusrialisation processes; (d) facilitate equitable access to research information, resources and technolo$/ and promote the application ofresearch findings and technolory in agricultural research and agricultural tecbnolosi ; (e) promote utilisation of agricultural research and knowledge systems; (D establish stong working relationships with in the public and private extension €encies sector in the traNfer of technolory; G) maintain regist€rs ofresearch scientists, r€search projects and research results; (h) faciliute and provide relevant training and manpower development to serve the agricultural research needs of Sien*a Leone; (i) produce atrnual reports, medium aad long- term research plans and strategies, highliglting the management, scientific training and financial aspects ofthe Institute; 0) establish strong links with national, rqlional and intemational research institutions or agencies involved in science and technolory development md Fansfer; 'x No Thz Sierra LeoneAgridltural Research b stitute Act, 2023 (k) represent Sierra Leone in regional and intemational agricultural researcb forums; (l) embance public awareness on tre importance of scientific research to agricultural and economicdevelopment; (m) disseminate and promote the dissemination of knowledge on modern agricultural innovationsand technologies to stake- holders; (n) monitor and evaluate the adoption, implementation and impact of national agricrltural research on agricultural productivity; (o) process and forward to govemment, the annual estimates for agricultural research fimding; @) mobilise human, financial and capital resources fiom donors, prirate sector and fiom within the institute for its benefit; (p) strengthen collaboration amongsq research, extensio4 famlers and policy makers and other key stakeholders in the national
 agricultural research and extemion system; (q) build the capacity of- O agricultural e)itension stalf in order to transfer tecbnology effectively; (ri) service providers along the agricultural value chain; and Qif learning institutions; No' The Sierra Leone Agriclthtal Research Institrat Act, 2023 n (q) engage the private sector in the agricultural research system towards - (i inYestment in production; (i) fimding research; and (D maitet ac.ess; (r) strengthen partnerships and resource mobilisatioq (s) build a performaoce-based system for researchers that r€cognises - (f research publications, and (n) rcsources generated through grants md partner:ships; (t) €stablish, maintain and operate income- generating entities for tre commercialisdion of rcsearch outputs of the Institute; (u) provide gnns for agricultural research and training programs, consistent with the national research priorities md srategic plan of the Institute; (u) facilitate dialogue amotrg key stakeholders of the national agricultural research system though the Food Systems Platform to discuss th€ needs and challenge3 of agricultural research and identify sustainable avenues to adilrcss them; and (v) do such other things as Comcil may consider necessary to attain thc object stated in subsection (1).
a Powers of Itrstitute.

Nc The Siena leone Agrlculnral Research It stitute Act, 2023 13.
Subject to the approval ofcouncil and in consultation with the Minister, the Institute shall have power to - (a) generate flrnds from commercial and other activities and reinvest such fimds to promote the wor* and gro\r.th of the Institute; (b) purchase or otherwise acquire or possess, hire or otherwise encumb€r real property; (c) establish, on its own or ia association with ano6er person or entity, for the purpose of developing or exploiting an invetrtion or technological expertise, and for this purpose to acquire 8n interest in or control over a company; and (O create, on its own or in association with a person or entity, a trust fund for the administration of, donations and contributions.
PART V. TIIEADMINSTRATION OF THE SIERRALEONE AGRICT.LTURAL INSTITUTE.

DiIector- Gercrsl o f Institut€.

14.

(l) The Institutr shall have a Director-General who, shall be appointed by the President on the recommendation ofthe Miniser, after consultation with the Council.
@) A person shall not be appointed as Director€eneral unless he- (a) is a Citizen ofSierra l,eone; @) hotds a doctorate degree in agricultural scieDces from a recognised university; Na fhe Sierra Leone Agricllural R*earch lislitute Aci 2023 -r) (c) has, at leas!

l0 yrars post-doctoral work experience in mattelr reiating to scientifir research, agricultural lesearch or d€Yelopment; (d) has a proven knowledge and experienee in admbistmtio!

al a senior marBgemsnt level.


rith a tack record ofhigh level ofintegriq,: and (ej has pr'-rven managerial slills a:rd imovative in good gor.,ernarce.

idess with comp€tence (i) The Dfuector-General shall hold office for a term of5 .vears and shall be eligble for reappointnent for a fllrther tffm of5 y'ears only.

(.+) The midmum telms and conditions of service of the shali be determined $ Council and be made equjvalefi to or betler thafl th!
'se of Vice-Chancellors end Principals of N-iala University, I-lnivosity of Sierra Lmne or o+,her prblic universities in Sierra Leone.

15.

(l) The Director-General shall be the Chief Scientific Furiirti.ns of Officer, Dbector-General Chief Executiye Officer, administati* neaa f,iiij.t"l- and vste cootroiler of the l stifiJte and shall be urder the geleral supervision of the Couocil.

(?)
Subject lo generaiig' of subsection ( I ) 'Jre Dbe{tor- General shall be respol-rible for - (a) the day-today operatiofls of the In5titutel fu) preparatior ofthe asrual repo*s- statements of accoun$ and audited accormts of the Institute; (c) strbmission ofreports, work progra'nme and budget of 'Jle Iasiitute; 30 No The Siefta Leone Agriclrltutdl Reseatch Institute A.t, 2023 (d) the arrangement of business and the recording and keeping of minutes of the meetings of the Comcil: (e) supervision aDd enforcement of code ,.if conduct ofother emplolees ofthe Institute; (f) performance of such other fimctions as may be assigned to him b1 the Council or the Minister.
(3) The Dircctor Genera!

shall be the principai signator) to all accounts ofthe lnstitute, other than Research Center accounts.

(4) The common seal shall be kept in the custody ofthe DirEctor- Ceneral.

(, lfthe position ofthe Director-General is vacant due attainment ofage ofretirement, resignation, dismissal or death.
or if for any reason he is unable to perfonn his duties, one ofthe Depury- Director Generals shall be appointed to perform the duties of the Director-Ceneral until the Director€eneral resumes his duties or a new Dhector-General is appointed.

16.

(1) The Institute shall have - (a) a Deputy Director-General, Research.

techlolog)/ and innovation development; and (b) a D€puty Dircctor{meml, Commercialisation and agd-business development.
both of whom shall be appointed by Council, to serve under the general supervision and control ofthe Director-General.

Deputy Direclor Cenerals Na The Siena lzone Agricultural Resedrch Institute Act.
202f 3l (2) A person shall not be appoified as Depuq Director- Gerreral unless he - (a) holds a doctorate degree in agriculnre or related sciences &om a recognised universig' with at least 7 years of post-doctoral experiencc in agricultural research, scientifi c research, academia or development; (b) has a proven knowledge and experience in agricuhnal development; (c) has proven rnanagerial skills; and (d) has attained the rarrk of- G) Principal R€search Officer in a reputable research institution or Ci) Associate Professor tom a recognised university.
(3) A Depufy Dtector-General shall hold office for 5 yean and shalt be eligible for reappointment for o fir{rer term of 5 years only.

i4) fie mhimum terms and conditions of service of a Depury Dkector4eneral shall be determined by Council and shall be equivalent to or better than those of a Deputy Vice'Chanc.ellor of Nj ala University, Universitl, ofSierra l-eone or odrer public universities in Siena Leone.

17.
17.

(l) The Director General may i:e rcmoved from office by nemolal tbe President by Council, on the advice of the Minister based on :-f^:"nin' recommendation ofthe Council.

,oon'gemcnt 3l No The.

Sieta Leone )grlcultural ResedrcL brstit.l?

,{ct, 2023 (2) Thc Council ma!.

rcmove other management staff, including, ihe Depu.y- Drector Generals, AdlEiristrative Direcior'.

Finance Dltctor ard Ceater Directors, from oft'ice.

on sound $or$ds, following due process.


(3) Notwithstanding subsections il) and l.li, a maragement staff shall not be removed &om office.

unless on the fol lowing grounds, - (a) his inability to perform the functicns ofthe office, arising fronr ph.
;sical or mental incapacity: (b) for gross misionduct or misbehavior, as determined by an independellt investi8ation panel; (c) for poorperformaxce, due to inabiliiy m gro* the Institute or functioo effectirelv in the capacig served; (d) on his attainment of the official age of retirementl (e) he is conlict'ed of a criminal offeo;e and sentenced to a term of imprisonment of oot less than 6 monthsi or (0 for any other ground cons'idered srrfficient to justi& rcmoval tom office, urder the te,fins and conditions of service approved by' Corlncil.
18.

(!)

The Institution shall have an Adminislratiee Direcloi appointed by the Council who shall be the principal adviser to the Director- Ceneral on adnrinistrati!€ matlers ofthe lnstitute.
No The Sit:rtt Ltore Agrit'uintol Resea4h lrEtilure .4c1, 2023 (2) A person sball not be appointed as Administrsliye Direcor rnless he has - ia) obtained a master's degree itr public adnrinistration, business adminisration or related disciplirie; (t) strotrg rritten and verbal communication skills: (c) -.eryed lbr a minimum of l0 years in admini*truion, rvith at least 5 yeaB at a sedor nranagement level, (3) I'he milimum telrns and co ditions of sen'ice of the .q.dmmistrirtive D ector sball be determioed by Cotocil and shall be equiyalent to or ktter thsn those ofthe Registrar oflijala Universit-v, Uuiversiry of9iera Lei,rs or otlrer public uriversities il Sierra l*one.
i+) The.

{.d1rriniiuatiye Director shall be responsible to - (a) provide administratiy€ suppofi to the Dtector-Ceneral; (b) ccordinate the adminisfrative activities oldre Research Centers ofthe Lrtitute; (c) promote development and compliance with the policies, regulatiorx, and guidelines of the lnstitute; (d) supervise the work of o&er administatir.e and support staff: (e) ensure proper documenlation of adminisiratiye activities and maintair accurate recorals tbr the Institute: 1{ No.
The Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Inslitalte ,1c!

21123 (f) develop efective communication system and ensuE prompt communication betrveen the Inslitute and its stakeholders: G) perform such other duties as may be assigned by the Dtector-General.

Iisatr.e Director 19.

(l) The Institution shall have a Finance Director appointed by Coulcil who shall be the principal adyiser to the Dfuector-Geneml on financial rnatters ofthe Institute.
(2) A persou shall not be appointed as Finance Direiror unless he has - (a) a qualification in Association of Chartered Accountirg or masters degree in the fields of Accounting, Finance or Business Administration; @) sened t'or a mioimum of lQ years in an accounting or finance r--lated Fosition.

1yift at least 5 at senior malage.ment lerel: and (c) proven knowledge and experience in accounting and financial management.
(3) The minimum terms and conditions ofservice ofthe Finance Director shall be determined by Council and shall be equii"lent to or better than those of a Finance Dir€ctor of Njala Univercity, Utriv'enity ofSiena Leone or otter public univesities in Siera Leone.

(4) The Finance Direstor shall be responsible to - (a) establish, maintain, constantly review and upgrade the financiai management system of the Institute; No.
Tle Sierra L?oie -lgricxltval Resedrch Institute Acl, 2023 3_< (b) provrde neces$ary leadership to ensure financial compliance with public financial Acts and regulations at all levels of the Institute; (c) develop resourc€ mobilisation strategy for Institutei (d) prepare annual and quart€rly budgets and related repons ofthe hstitute; ('e) profide supervision and support for other personnel involved in finance related work; and (0 perform zuch othe.,r duties as may be assigned by the D irector-Gefieral 20.
(l) The Institute shall have, r addition to the Director- o-ther st,fa General, Depuq, Director-Genemls, Adninistrative Director and of lnstitut' Finance Dkector, such other staffas the Council may determine, for the efiicient discharge of its ftinctions under tbis Act and on terms and conditions equivalent to or better than those enjoyed by equivalent staff of Njala Universiqi Llniversity of Sierra Leone or other public uoiversities in Sierra Leone.
(2) Other staff that may be employed under subsection ( I ) blcluding research and administralive staff ofihe Research Centers, mry be deployed by the Institute trhere and when required.

21.

Public officcrs ma1,, at the instatrce ofthe Institute, be sccondmeot seconded or othenvise render assistanc€ tnstimte may request the *ithdrawal of any such seconded staff .lto is unable to carry out assigned functioDs in a manner satisfacbry to the Instihne.
to the Institute but rhe of,public ont""tt' i\'frna.gsmcrt cr,l)]riitiaas.

No.

The Sieft,J l.eo*,4grfu:uiatol Reeec"ch insliute lct.

202j 22.

(1) Appointment of staffofln.stit'rte;hill b.. on cor,trncl tbr a fued term of 4 )ears renewable by mr:nrai Lonsent.

bul such staff shall hold tenure after sen"tsg th(- IGtitute for 2 consecutive terms of -1 -vears each.

(2) Annual statT performan(.e records shall ba kept to eBluate staff on *re basis ofjob ped'ornla-rice ard conducr.

23.
23.

(1) The Director Geteral ma1' ei,rslitrrte manageulent standing or ad-hoc committees corsiJting of dre Ilirecior General.

Deputl Director Generals, Ceno e-Directr-'rs end otlier relevanr personnei for the purposes of consui,.ation r-!ii ttte d:]):r.-'Cay offairs olthe Institute and its constiurent Research Ceritres €) The Director General.

shall be tlltlirmgn for all l:raoagement committees and detenrritre dte nie:rl)-'aship,'nee.ting proc€dures aad purpose of such coruruiftees.
?A, {.i) The Institute shlll lr;rve:.-:;ir Researcli Centr.s, as the Couscii ma1', on the advice ofthe Direct;;r Genaral, determirle.

(2) A Research Cenre r,.nder s.:trsection 1l) sliall be b - 1a) provide advise oi aad develop appropriate srlslems ro prorn,-']!e babrsed.
dirersifred and sustaintd agricu!tural development and tooptinise agricultrra| ;.t(duction tholgh adapdve and invesii-saiive researchi (b) devtlop innovative resel.r:Jr trrrcg6s1565 6ry1 conduct world-ciass investigaaions in therelevant fi eld olag:icrrlture; and (c) promote agric,Jl$ral co&metcialisation through the disseminatior'; of improved productio, technologies to farming conrmuo ities andeslrblisb effertile feedback systems rvith nriijLl!'.
:is iD support of nation3l seli-suiiici+nc-v and export capaciries in agrisultural producb: and I\o' The Sieta Leoie Agricultqal Rtsedrch Institvte Acl, 20:23 (d) cooperate with other Research Centes and key stakeh,rldeN to establish aod operate an agribusiness incubation system.
@) For the purpose of carrying out its fimctions md€r subsection (l ) a Research centre shall - (a) organise, design and car), out on-station and on-farm research in thet resp€ctive sectors in accordmce witlr of agricultEral r€search such policies and in such priorities as may be determined by the Council; (b) identiry production, policy, market, processing and utilization constraints in the fields of agriculture, water, livestock, fisheries.
forestry and environment and prepare short and long-term research progranmes within the t-amewort of the national agricultural research srst€m; (c) identi& and disseminate, h collaboration with other relevant agencies appropriate systerns of mechanization and technolos/ optioDs to improve agricularal produdion and provide mswers to for€segable pmblems facing crop, livestoc( forrsry and fishedes productiou; (d) collaborate with the extension and education services and other organisations, agencies and institutions including schools, technical institutions and universitieg public or private to disseminate research results rnd technologies; 38 llo fhe Siena Leone Agficukutal Resedrch Institute AcL 2423 (e) establish aod maintain regular contact with regional and irternational agricultural Reseaach Centres to ensure the rapid introduction, evaluation and use ofimproved technology of potential benefit to the country; (f) conduct in associatioB with tLe Council annual reviews ofresearch results 8nd modiry research pograrnmes as appropriate; (g) promote demand-driven participatory research, planning and priority sefting and; @) perform such other firnctions as Council may determine, Cefltrc- Dircctoi 25.
(1) A Research Centre under subsection (l) shall be headed by a CenEe- Director, appointed by Council on the recommendation of the AppoinmenE, Promotions and Performance Cornmitee.
(2) A Centr+Director appointed under subsection (l), shall, with regards to the Research Centre to which he is appointed - (a) be the research and administrative head aad chief scientist; O) be the chief fmance officer and principal signatory to its accounts; (c) implement decisions the Council and management, affecting the Rosearch Cente; (c) oversee the wort and discipline ofemployees assigned to the Research Centre; and NG Th.
Sie/la lzone AgriculfirAl Researchlrrsrlhlte Act, 2023 39 (d) liaise with relevant stakeholders to promote the objectives ofthe lnstitute and mobilise resources to support the work of the Research Centre.
(3) A person shall not be appointed Centre-Director unless he - (c) has, at least, 5 ]rears'experience in agricularal research or development; (d) has proven managerial skills; and (e) has attained a rank, - @ not below Principal Research Officer in a reputable reseach instihrtion; or (if Associate Professor &om a recognised university.

(4) A person appointed Cente-Director shall hold office gcaa or for a term of 5 yean, and shall be eligible for reappointment f". "

l$f;tr " firrtherterm of5 years onll'.


26.

(1) A Research Centre shall appoint heads ofresearch programmes to provide leadership for research programmes undertaken in the Res€arch Center.

(2) A p€rson shall not be appointed Hed of Research Programme, under subsection (l), unless he is a researcher who hd attained a doctorate degree il the relevant field ofresearch.

27.
27.

The property in every research finding or every programme Prop.rty in undertaken by the Institute that is funded entirely by grants made to :t::-"h the Instihrte shall vest irr ,t. lnoit i., *f".. ;' " A- hstitute thdinss' d€cides to uaive or share ounership in a properly executed agreeinenr 4 Nc The Siena lzotu Agricult ral Researchlnstitute Act, ,023 Discovadca, inventions, alc.

X.
X.

(1) The rights in discoveries, inventions and improvements in rsspect ofprocesses, apparatus and machinery made by- (a) an employee of Institute; (b) a person assisting Institute with an investilation or research; shall vest in the Institute.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (l), the InstinrE may make available for use in rhe public, discoveries, inventions and improvements vested in lhe instiEte, subject to sucb conditions and tLe payment of fees or royalties as tie Institute may determine.
(3) The Council may, where the rights in a discoveryi invention or improvement are veste.d in the Institute, award to the porson respotrsible for the discovery invention or improvement such bonus as it deems fit m make provision for financial participation by such person in the profits derived from the discovery invention or improvement to such extent as the Minister may, with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance, d€t€rmine.
(4) The Institute may apply for a patent in respect of a discovery invention or improvement refered to in subsectioo (1) to Acc€ls l€8eaach firdings ard facilities.

Powar to chargr f!cs.

29.

The lDstitute may, subject to su€h conditions, restrictioos andlimitations as it may det€rmine, allow any person access to the research fiDdings and frcilities, including equipmor( laboramry and tlatabase of rhe 30.
The Instiorte may impose fees, royalties or other charges invsstigation, tesr, trdining advice or other as iutinks fit for r€seaclL services provided by the Institute or for the use of its properly and frcilities I$& The Siena Leone Agricttltural Research lrctina Aci 2023 4l 31.

The Institute may require a person to submit informalion po8er or to produce documents or records which in the opinion of the Equclt.

Couacil is necessary for the discharge of the Institute's fiDctioos lmder this Act.

32.
32.

0) A Research Centre shall constitute standing or ad- RB.arch hoc comrnittees to deal with matters of sp€cific Research Cente.

inter€st to ft" 3l'#,n*.. Fuds of Institule- (2) The Centre-Director may detsrmine tie composfion, functionsand procedures ofthe Research C€nre Commitle€s.

PARTVI -FINANCIALPROVISIONS OF INSTITUTE 33.


The activities ofthe Institute shall be financed by ftmds consisting of - (a) monies appropriated Parliament for the purposes of the lnstitute based on the income md expendifure of fte €stimsted Institute; (b) income eamed by the Institute tbrough a trust fimd or comm€rcial activities; (c) rcsearch g-ants, giffs or donations &om any person or ar{tority; and (d) monies otterwise accruing to the Institute in the course of is activities.

34.
34.

(l) Tbe Dircctor-General shall receive on behalf of the lnstitute all ftnds oftbe Instirute.

and audit 42 I{c The Sieta bone Agriculrural Research lhstitute Act, 7023 (2) The Institute shall keep proper books of accounts and proper records in relation to its accounts and shall preparc within a period of 3 months after the end ofeach financial year, a statem€nt of its accounts in such form as the Auditcr-General mav direct.
(3) The books ?trd accounts ofthe Institute shall each year be audited by theAuditor-Geneml or a firm ofaudirors approved by him or her and the report of the audir shalt be submitted to the Council.

Annual repoft- 35.

(l) The Dfector-General shall, within 3 months after the end ofeach financial year, submil to the S.T.C for the approval ofthe Courcil an aDnual report ofthe activities, operations, undertakings and property and finances of the Institute for that year.
(2) Subject to subsection (l), an annual report shall include - (a) a copy ofthe audited accounts ofthe Institute together with the audit report thereon; and O) any other report made to or requested by the Minister for the ioformation or consideration of Cabinet (3) A copy ofthe annual report approved by the Council shall be sent to the Minister not later than 4 months after the end of the year to which the report relates and the Midster shall, as soon as possible, but not later fran 2 months after the receipt of the report cause the report to be laid bdfore Padiament.
(4) The financial year ofthe Institute shall be the ssme as tbat ofthe Govemment.

No Thz Sierra l4one Agriculhtdl Research btstitute Ac!, 2023 PART VII .

MISCELT*ANEOUS 36.

The Minister ma)', after consultations with rhe Institute, Regulalions' rnske regulatio s as he considers necessary for giving effect to this Act.

37.

The Sierra Leone Agriculfifal Researci Instiurte Acl 2007 Rcpeal.

is hereby repealed.

Made this I8th day of April, 2023.


ABU BAKAR KARIM, Lr'inister of Agricuhure and Food Secarity.

FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE.

PR$nm AND PuBUSHED By rrE GovEpJ.rMEII PRo,lrtNG DEp ran@{t, Stm.R^ LEoNE.

GAznrE No-23 oF 2AIjd bRt-2023