DETERMINANTS OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN KARENE DISTRICT, SIERRA LEONE (1980 2024): AN ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF LAND, LABOR, AND CAPITAL

Agriculture is the primary sector in Karene District Sierra Leone because it gives work to 60% of residents, enhances the country's Gross Domestic Product, and sustains food supplies for the nation's population. This research examines agricultural productivity factors because traditional farming methods and new economic situations create difficulties. Reported findings use quantitative analysis through the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) and econometric evaluation to examine 45 years of data obtained through local farmer surveys combined with secondary agricultural data from government and international databases. Scientists discovered that superior land optimization techniques boost production levels but unproductive labor payment methods reduce these yields. The research demonstrates how directed capital investment acts as a basic requirement to help farmers adopt new technologies. Using obtained study insights, the research establishes specific policy measures that boost agricultural output in Karene District. This study recommends that the government establish programs that train farmers better, extend financial backing for modern farming systems, and establish agricultural groups that will help members share resources and collaborate on marketing efforts.This research has built academic knowledge about agricultural economics while providing essential references to policymakers and development agencies concentrating on sustainable agriculture expansion in Sierra Leone together with comparable sub-Saharan African areas. A thorough examination of agricultural productivity complexities will help develop complete policies that improve food security and enhance the social and economic conditions of smallholder farmers across the region.