Appropriate mechanization: this reduces the drudgery of farm work and improves productivity. Through an FAO/RRS project the following were accomplished in 2004.

• 60 handicapped artisanal blacksmiths and food processors in Bo, Bonthe, Port Loko and Makeni were trained in the fabrication of tools used in rice farming.
• Four Blacksmithery and agro based production centres were constructed in Bo, Bonthe, Port Loko and Tonkolili Districts.
• A training manual on blacksmithery and food processing was produced.

Cassava, Sweet potato and soybean processing: a large number of women have been trained by IAR in improved processing and utilization of crops in particular the root and tuber crops. Since 1996 more than 2500 women have been trained in improved crop processing and utilization, including at least 250 who were trained to train their compatriots. Such training has greatly enhanced the efficiency of women in cassava processing and improved the quality of cassava products. Since 2002 the high protein legume – soybean has been promoted among women as a cheap source of protein particularly for babies. In 2005 a massive effort was initiated to popularize soybean and train processors in the production of cassava flour in a view of increasing the products of cassava and reduce the importation of wheat.

Monograph on Cassava Development Strategy: this document provides a detailed description of the status of cassava in cropping systems and the economy of Sierra Leone together with analysis of issues involved in developing the crop and a framework for appropriate interventions in promoting the crop.

Crop Production Guidelines: NARCC/IAR/RRS in collaboration with NUC have produced comprehensive guidelines on crop production in Sierra Leone. The guidelines cover for each major crop the following: - Utilization, National Goals, Ecological Zones Main Areas of production, Soil and Rainfall Requirements, Land Preparation, Varieties, Seed Selection, Planting, Manuring Fertilization, Crop Protection, Harvesting, Post Harvest practices, Monetary Returns and, Marketing opportunities. The manual is now being printed.