The groundbreaking  Professor Monty Jones, who did not only win world fame by being the first African to receive the prestigious 2004 World Food Prize for his development of New Rice For Africa ( NERICA ) but also served as his country’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry , has passed away.

Dr. Monty Jones died in Freetown on Sunday April 28, 2024. The cause of his death has not been announced.

Professor Jones’ death is not only an irreparable loss to Sierra Leone but to Africa and the world. By his accomplishments, he brought fame and acclaim to both Africa and his motherland.