Robert: “Working through the IOM means bringing back development to my homeland. This vision appeals a lot me. My heart is in Sierra Leone and so is my future. The fact that the IOM serves as an intermediary and put experts on projects, contributes to the reconstruction of the country.”
Eleven years ago, Robert came to the Netherlands, at first for his studies. The war in Sierra Leone caused him to stay. His family also joined him in the Netherlands. He finished two courses of study, crop sciences and geographic information, and he took his PhD. He is now working as a research worker for the Center for Genetic Resources, which is part of the Wageningen University.
Robert emphasizes the importance of providing help with the cooperation of the local population. “There are many support programmes in Sierra Leone. But just imposing a certain vision and leaving again, is of no help. I want to commit myself to the population, so that the reconstruction projects gain the population’s trust. Walk with the people and talk to them.”
Robert: “The local farmers have plenty of practical knowledge. But this knowledge is lost if it is not recorded. That is why I want to create a database with as much expertise as possible in the field of crop production. In order to give this shape, you have to mingle with the farmers. That is why it is so important that I go and see them, talk to them, give them advice. The IOM makes sure that all kinds of new initiatives are created, which are positive for the country. My dream for Sierra Leone is bigger than ever.”
