Prof. Monty Patrick Jones

1951-2024

Let the memory of Prof. Monty Patrick Jones be with us forever

• 73 years old
• Born on 5/02/1951
• Passed away on 28/04/2024

We will be gathering to reminisce on cherished memories, share stories, and remember a wonderful person who will always hold a special place in our hearts. Please join us as we unite to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Prof Monty Jones.

Ceremony : Civic Funeral
Date: Tuesday 14 May 2024
Time: 11:00am
Location: Freetown New City Hall

Vigil at his Residence
Regimanuel Gray Estate, Goderich
Tuesday, 14th May, 2024 at 6pm

Ceremony: Holy Mass and Burial
Date: Wednesday 15 May 2024
Time: 1.00pm
Location: St. Anthony Catholic Church, Skye Street, Freetown.

MONTY’s FAMILY WEBSITE FOR MPJ MEMORIAL

AFRICA’S MONTY JONES GOES HOME

In Memoriam:

Dr. Monty Patrick Jones was born on February 5, 1951 and passed away on April 28, 2024. He was a compassionate and excellent leader touching the lives of all who had the privilege of working with him. He was the founding Executive Director and Head of Mission of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) from 2002-2013. In this role Prof Monty Jones strongly advocated for increased attention and investment in agricultural research and development in Africa, primarily at national level but also at supra national level, arguing that this was essential for the continent to realize its agricultural potential. To this end he spearheaded the alignment of national and regional agricultural strategies and investment plans and programmes to the continental framework for agriculture research and extension. He buttressed his advocacy by getting FARA to be mandated by the African Union Commission and AU-NEPAD as their technical organization on agricultural research. Prof Monty Jones also vigorously pushed for agricultural research to embrace the innovation systems approach where researchers and other actors in the value chain work collaboratively together to develop solutions demanded by end users and to ensure that those solutions are put into use. Because this approach offers higher development outcomes than conventional approaches it has now become a mainstream approach in agriculture research and innovation on the continent. During Prof Monty Jones 11-year tenure at FARA, the organization grew from scratch to become Africa’s voice on agriculture research; the continental platform for networking and exchange of knowledge in agriculture research and innovation; the broker of agriculture science and innovation partnerships for entities that wish to engage with Africa at continental level; and the lead institution responsible for formulating and operationalizing Africa’s agenda for increasing the deployment of science, technology and innovation in agriculture as a key pathway to achievement of the continent’s development goals.

In this role, he One of his many accomplishments was the development of the genetic process that resulted in the New Rice for Africa (NERICA), a high yielding yet hardy rice breed that has had a profound impact on rice production throughout Africa and Asia. Dr. Jones was awarded the World Food Prize in 2004 for his scientific innovation in the development of NERICA, the first African to receive the award, received an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree in 2005 for his innovative accomplishments by Birmingham University, and was named one of the most influential persons in the world in 2007 by Time Magazine. He was a tireless advocate for agricultural development, dedicating his time and expertise to effecting positive change in Africa.

Dr. Jones is survived by his wife, Geraldine Jones; daughter, Patricia Jones; son, Chuck Jones; daughters, Emma Benvenuti, Montina Befus, and Geraldine Jones; grandchildren, Isiah Jones, Aidan Benvenuti, Sophia Benvenuti, and Isabella Befus. His memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of working with him. As we mourn the loss of a great leader, we take solace in the knowledge that his legacy, achievements and work will continue to inspire the world. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the profound impact he made on the world. He will be remembered for his generosity, compassion, and unwavering kindness.

Rest in peace! Your brilliance, professionalism, ingenuity, kindness, and passion will remain with us.

Education

1974 (Njala University, Sierra Leone) Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

1979 (University of Birmingham, UK) Master of Science in Plant Genetic Resources

1983 (University of Birmingham, UK) Doctorate in Philosophy in Plant Biology

Awards and Recognitions

- 2001 – National Order of Merit of Côte d’Ivoire given by the Ivorian President.
- 2004 – Co-recipient of the World Food Prize for his work in developing NERICA.
- 2005 – Honorary degree in Doctor of Science (DSc) by his alma mater, Birmingham University, in July 2005.
- 2007 – One of the 100 most influential persons of the world
- 2010 – Professor Extraordinary by the Executive Committee of the University of the Free State, South Africa.
- 2010 –Main prize of the Niigata International Food Award in Japan.
- 2011 – Insignia of the Grand Officer of the order of the Rokel by the President of Sierra Leone for his work on NERICA.

World Food Prize Winner, Prof. Monty Jones, passes away at 73

Sierra Leone, Africa And The World Have Lost An Inimitable Trailblazer : Rest In Peace, Professor Monty Jones

The Oswald Hanciles Column

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Tribute by Marcel Nwalozie

Dr Monty Patrick Jones – I thought we had w more years to work together.
Read More

Monty, your passing at this time took me by surprise – an unpleasant one! I first met Monty in 1998 while I was serving as Director of Programs at CORAF, while he was on his way to the founding the New Rice for Africa – NERICA at the M’Bé research station of AfricaRice in Côte d’Ivoire. His special scientific prowess set him apart from several of his peers in the international research community. And when Monty eventually made a final crack at the NERICAs, he became a household name for food security on the African continent. Presidents of nations wanted to have this “magic” variety tailored for rice producers and consumers on the continent. He helped add value to CORAF’s work in West and Central, especially when CORAF had to coordinate the Kano-Katsina-Maradi (KKM) project of the SSA Challenge Program led by FARA which Monty was heading as the Executive Director of FARA at the time.

Monty’s commitment to improving the welfare of producers and consumers led him to undertake painstaking research aimed at creating the miracle NERICA varieties cultivated on over 2 million hectares on the continent. The NERICAs continue to produce beyond expectations of users even under the most challenging environmental conditions that impede the productivity of other varieties under similar conditions. Monty’s gift of innovative thinking, visionary spirit, and unwavering patience later earned him an international laurel in 2004 as first African to be on the rollcall of the World Food Prize. He was later, in 2007, honored by Times Magazine as one the 100 most influential persons in the world. These laurels made us, his colleagues, and partners, proud; and further strengthened the resolve of younger colleagues, some of whom Monty had mentored, to work even much harder. Monty was an inspiration to many in the international scientific community. And as the founding Executive Director of FARA – Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa – he exhibited charismatic leadership. Monty always found time with his colleagues – both senior and younger colleagues, and several people dreamt of being like him.
I have always wondered how he did it, professionally. But he was a fine gentle man. And his gentleness, and disarming smiles will be missed.

Dr Marcel Nwalozie
Chief of Staff, AfricaRice

Tribute by Lydia Sasu

We do appreciate the good work you did with the farmers organisation. Thus, by linking the farmers organisations to the research institutions. Read More

Tribute by DAINA ANYOMI

It is with great sadness that I learnt of the passing of Prof. Monty Jones.

I joined FARA in August 2004 and had the privilege to work with him. He was a man of principles and a perfectionist. He will make sure that every work is done perfectly, and every meeting is well prepared. For example, one month before a Board Meeting, no staff travels. Every presentation, every document to be presented to the Board would be reviewed. He would make sure everything is perfect. That was him.

He was a kind man with a good heart. He had compassion for humankind. Any time a staff was in trouble, he was there to give his support. He has been a blessing in the life of many, including me. We will miss you Prof. Monty Jones.

Adieu Prof. Monty Jones!

Tribute by Dr Abdou Tenkouano

It is with great sorrow that I bid farewell to Prof. Monty Jones.
Read More

Tribute by Prof Walter Sandow Alhassan

Prof Monty Jones was not only a Plant Breeder of a global reputation but also an inspirational science administrator. Read More

Tribute by Eugénie Essi Njanda

Disbelief and immense sadness is what I felt and still feel at the announcement of the demise of Dr. Jones. Africa has lost one of its finest scientists and mentor to so many.Read More

Tribute by Remi KAHANE

Dear FARA Community,
Very sad to learn about the passing of Dr. Monthy Jones, strong character who shaped the spirit of FARA,Read More

Tribute by Nwokeke Precious Chiehiura

Prof Monty Patrick Jones has been a role model, he dedicated his life towards the growth of Africa. Read More

Tribute by Prof Walter Sandow Alhassan

Prof Monty Jones was not only a Plant Breeder of a global reputation but also an inspirational science administrator. Read More

Tribute by Beedeeanan Hulman, SADC

As a former Senior Programme Officer (Livestock) at the SADC Secretariat, we had a close collaboration with FARA in the field of agricultural research.Read More

Tribute by Sie Moussa

C’est avec une très grande tristesse que j’ai appris le décès de Monty. La Recherche africaine perd l’un de ses ambassadeurs qui a consacré sa vie entièrement au rayonnement de la science a travers l’implication de tous les acteurs du monde rural.Read More

Tribute by Dr Moruf Abiola Olaide Akintunde

Rest in perfect peace, the path you took while alive has paved ways for many of your mentees. Read More

Tribute by Dr. Amos Mensah

Tribute to the Legacy of Prof. Monty Jones

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to a titan in the field of African agriculture, Prof. Monty Jones.Read More

Tribute by Judith Ann Francis

Professor Jones, Monty, my friend and co-advocate for science, technology and innovation for agricultural and rural transformation, may you rest in peace.Read More

Tribute by George Nyandoro

Prof! Rest in Peace may God fulfill your desires upon your family that you loved most, and the vision you started and the vision that you were supporting wipe off hunger in Africa and beyond. Read More

Tribute by Lucy Muchoki

Dr MontyJones, I have no words ! there’s so much to say about you. I worked with you as one of the directors representing the private sector. Read More

Tribute by David Joseph Allieu

Thanks and appreciate your efforts and time in supporting and placing Sierra Leone as a state among equals un terms of innovation, especially on your contribution to the Nerica Rice variety to our farmers. Thanks and may God grant you heavens.

Tribute by Idowu O. Ejere
I met Prof. Jones at a DFID reception in Beijing. I was fresh out of graduate school and eager to show my skills but it was the height of the 2009 financial crisisRead More

Tribute by Dr. Amos Mensah
Tribute to the Legacy of Prof. Monty Jones

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to a titan in the field of African agriculture, Prof. Monty Jones. Read More

Tribute by Dr Moruf Abiola Olaide Akintunde

Rest in perfect peace, the path you took while alive has paved ways for many of your mentees. Read More

Tribute by Emmanuel Ngeh

You will remain in our heart for ever. Your dedication to fight hunger and poverty can not be underestimated. You fought a good fight and now you have gone to rest.Read More

Tribute by John Benson

To me Monty is the best African institutional developer of my time. He is a consummate professional,Read More

Tribute by AKOUVI LEGBEZE

Oh Prof! It has never crossed my mind to write a tribute in your memory so soon.Read More

Tribute by Ifidon OHIOMOBA

This indeed is exit of African agricultural Colossus. One of the developers of NERICA rice, a food prize laureate and founding leader (Executive Director) of FARA.Read More

Tribute by Prof Idowu Oladele

A life of research with impacts not devoid of science nor practice, blazing the whole value chain stages and actors.Read More

Tribute by Abdallah Zakria Edrise Abdallah

Prof. Monty Patrick Jones(1951-2024).First and foremost, congratulations and forgiveness to the soul of the present deceased, who passed away last month.Read More

Tribute by Dr. Anastasia W. Kagunyu

Prof. Monty Patrick Jones leaves a lasting legacy in Africa, marked by his profound dedication to advancing agriculture, promoting sustainable development, and empowering communities.Read More

Tribute by Ige Lawrence

We are on transit with different bus stops. You reached yours successfully, though other passengers are missing you. In all, we give God the glory.Read More

Tribute by Rtn. Eng. Charles Kalule

To the Agriculture fraternity, you transformed our attitude towards farming forever. Invisible, unheeded but always near everyone, still loved, still missed, and held so dear.Read More

Tribute by Dr Victor Keraro

It is so sad to learn that Professor Monty Jones is no more. I served FARA under Monty Jones as the Director of Finance and Administration between 2004 and 2008. Read More

A memory of Prof. Monty Jones,

Tribute by Ralph von Kaufmann

“I witnessed the announcement of Monty Jones’ appointment as the first Executive Secretary of FARA, and since then, I’ve closely followed FARA’s remarkable progress. Monty’s receipt of the World Food Prize brought him global recognition, providing a unique platform to advocate for African agricultural research and showcase its accomplishments.
Read More

Tribute by Ama Pokuah Asenso

I am very saddened to write this tribute for Prof Jones, I cannot believe that too soon Prof has left us.

I served Prof Jones as his PA when I joined FARA in 2005. His focus and push for excellence was admirable. Read More

LE SAVANT, PROFESSEUR MONTY JONES, UN AMI, UN FRERE, N’EST PLUS

Tribute by Papa Abdoulaye Seck

C’est avec une tristesse infinie que j’ai appris le décès du professeur Monty Jones, brillant Chercheur qui a mis au point la première génération des variétés de riz NERICA à AfricaRice. Ensuite, il avait poursuivi sa carrière au Forum Africain de la recherche Agricole, à Accra, comme Secrétaire Executif et j’en étais le Président du Conseil d’Administration.Read More

Tribute by Brenda Semevo Afari

Too soon … way too soon!!! I met Prof. Jones sometime in 2007 on a flight from South Africa to Accra. At the time I had no idea this encounter would change my life for the better. I got on the flight late and the only seat available in the business class cabin was next to him.Read More

Tribute to Professor Monty Jones

By Professor Anthony Youdeowei, London, United Kingdom, 8 May 2024
Distinguished Rice Scientist, World Food Prize Laureate,
A Fine Gentleman and an
Agricultural Development Specialist per excellence

Monty Jones, you are a pride to African agriculture, to your country Sierra Leone and to Africa. Your passing is a major loss to Africa and to the developing world. But the Lord Almighty always knows best
Read More

Tribute by Mrs Aissetou DRAME YAYE (PhD)

It is with great sadness that I learnt about the passing of one of my biggest mentors, Prof Monty Jones. I knew him in early 2006 when he recruited me as a Programme Officer at FARA.Read More

Tribute by Evado Arfs

It is with great sadness that I learnt of the passing away of Dr. Jones as I affectionately calls him. I have had the privilege of working with him and I must say that his determination, hard work, drive and success has always been my motivation to achieve higher heights.Read More

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News And Events Press Release

by Shaquille Pennaneach

10 months ago

2 min to read 97

ANNOUNCING THE DEATH OF OUR BELOVED FOUNDING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PROF. MONTY JONES

It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that the Executive Director of FARA,…Read More

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