On March 3, 2026, the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLCA) signed a landmark compliance agreement with CTC Mining Company and Roy Global Limited, marking a historic milestone in the implementation of the Local Content Act of 2016. The ceremony, held at the Agency’s conference hall, underscored Sierra Leone’s commitment to embedding local talent, businesses, and institutions into the mining sector’s value chain.

In his opening statement, Director-General Mr. Fodeba Daboh emphasized that the signing was not only a statutory obligation under Section 58(1) of the Act but also a bold step toward operationalizing Sierra Leone’s vision of inclusive economic growth. He stressed that the agreement formalizes commitments in workforce development, procurement, technology transfer, and broader economic contributions, ensuring that Sierra Leoneans are meaningfully integrated into the nation’s industrial progress.

Mr. Daboh reiterated that mega contracts must not bypass Sierra Leonean vendors, and that qualified, trained, and capacitated locals deserve first consideration in employment, contracts, and procurement. He emphasized that the agreement provides a structural framework for planning, implementing, and reporting on local content obligations, aligning company initiatives with national priorities while establishing a transparent and enforceable roadmap for measurable outcomes.

Roy Global Limited: Setting the Standard for Local Excellence

At the heart of this milestone is Roy Global Limited, the first Sierra Leonean-owned company to sign such an agreement. Roy Global is not only complying with statutory obligations—it is redefining what it means to be a local company in Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Kargo, CEO of Roy Global Limited, proudly declared:
“Ninety-eight percent of our workforce is Sierra Leonean. We are investing heavily in technology transfer, building the capacity of our staff, and sending them overseas for advanced training. Roy Global is a local company with international standards, and we can compete with any foreign company operating within our domain.” This statement reflects Roy Global’s unwavering commitment to empowering Sierra Leoneans through employment, skills development, and exposure to global best practices. By prioritizing workforce integration and capacity building, the company is ensuring that Sierra Leonean professionals are not only part of the mining sector but are equipped to lead it.

Services and Capabilities

Roy Global Limited has established itself as a trusted provider of mining and logistics services, operating with efficiency, transparency, and international standards. Its portfolio includes:

• Mining support services – delivering operational excellence across exploration and production activities.
• Logistics and supply chain management – ensuring seamless movement of equipment, materials, and personnel.
• Procurement and vendor development – fostering opportunities for Sierra Leonean suppliers and SMEs.
• Technology transfer and training programs – equipping local staff with advanced technical and managerial skills.
• Capacity building initiatives – sending Sierra Leonean professionals abroad for specialized training to enhance competitiveness.

Through these services, Roy Global demonstrates that Sierra Leonean companies are not only capable of meeting local expectations but can also operate at par with international firms.

A Vision Beyond Compliance

Roy Global’s leadership in local content compliance is more than a statutory requirement—it is a vision for sustainable national development. By embedding Sierra Leonean talent into its operations, investing in technology competence, and fostering supplier competitiveness, the company is contributing to broad-based economic growth. Mr. Kargo emphasized that Roy Global is striving to enhance both staff and company capacity so that it can continue to operate beyond local expectations. This ambition reflects the company’s determination to remain a competitive force in mining and logistics, while serving as a model of how Sierra Leonean enterprises can thrive in global industries.

A Beacon of National Pride

The signing of this agreement is a demonstration of mutual accountability and shared commitment between the SLCA, CTC Mining, and Roy Global Limited. It ensures that foreign direct investment translates into tangible, lasting benefits for Sierra Leoneans. As the first Sierra Leonean company to formalize such compliance, Roy Global Limited has positioned itself as a beacon of national pride and a trailblazer in the mining sector. Its leadership affirms that local businesses are not only capable but essential in driving Sierra Leone’s economic transformation.

 Background

The Sierra Leone Local Content Act was established to promote the active participation of local businesses, entrepreneurs, and the workforce in key economic sectors, with the aim of reducing overdependence on imports, strengthening domestic value chains, and fostering inclusive economic growth.

RHINE AFRICA, operating through its GO+ supermarket and retail franchise model, presents a strategic opportunity for integrating local businesses into formal and modern retail markets. Through its expanding footprint, GO+ has the potential to absorb locally produced goods, support local suppliers, create employment, and enhance skills transfer, in alignment with local content objectives.

In this context, the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA), through its Business Development Department (BDD) and Skills Department, facilitated an engagement between GO+ representatives and a cross-section of registered local entrepreneurs.

 Purpose and Objectives of the Engagement: The engagement was convened to create a structured platform for dialogue and collaboration between SLLCA entrepreneurs and RHINE AFRICA (GO+). The key objectives were to:

• Explore opportunities for franchise establishment as a pathway for local business participation.
• Assess potential business market linkages between GO+ and local suppliers.
• Examine alignment between GO+ operations and Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy.
• Identify challenges affecting local suppliers, including packaging, standards, finance, and market access.
• Provide entrepreneurs with the opportunity to raise concerns and share practical experiences.
• Propose actionable recommendations to strengthen local content integration and partnerships.

Overview of Discussions: The engagement brought together representatives of RHINE AFRICA (GO+) and entrepreneurs registered with the SLLCA. Discussions focused on franchise opportunities, local sourcing, supply chain requirements, and mechanisms for improving the visibility and competitiveness of “Made in Sierra Leone” products within supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants.

GO+ outlined its franchise model, local sourcing potential, and plans for expansion, including provisions for bank loan facilitation through collateral assessment, collaboration with packaging companies, access to ceiling/packaging machines, and plans for an upcoming clothing factory. Local entrepreneurs actively shared concerns and expectations regarding fair market access, standards compliance, and institutional support.

 Key Issues Raised by Local Entrepreneurs

• Operational Collaboration: Entrepreneurs requested clearer information on GO+’s operational framework and how collaboration with local suppliers would be structured to ensure efficiency and fairness.
• Packaging and Standards: Packaging was identified as a major constraint. Many local products struggle to meet supermarket requirements related to packaging quality, labeling, hygiene, and shelf life, affecting competitiveness and acceptance.
• Supply Assurance and Consistency: Entrepreneurs assured GO+ of their capacity to supply local products but emphasized the need for timely notifications on demand. Challenges remain in meeting consistent quantity requirements due to limited working capital and production capacity.
• Unfair Rejection of Local Products: Concerns were raised regarding alleged unfair rejection of local products by some supermarkets without clear justification. Entrepreneurs called on the Local Content Agency to investigate and protect local producers from reputational and financial harm.
• Monitoring of Supermarkets: Participants called for improved monitoring of supermarkets to ensure compliance with local content requirements, particularly the consistent stocking and visibility of “Made in Sierra Leone” products.
• Competition and Market Positioning: Clarification was sought on GO+’s strategy for competing with local shops, especially in light of public perceptions that supermarkets are more expensive.
• Access to Local Products in the Hospitality Sector: Entrepreneurs highlighted limited access to local products in hotels and restaurants and recommended mandatory “Made in Sierra Leone” shelves within hospitality establishments.

Opportunities Identified: The engagement highlighted significant opportunities for local businesses, including:

• Supplying locally produced food items, household goods, and packaged products to GO+ outlets.
• Participation as franchise owners, distributors, or service providers within the GO+ value chain.
• Increased product visibility, income stability, and employment generation through formal retail markets.
• Skills transfer and business growth supported by structured retail systems and partnerships.

Challenges Affecting Effective Market Linkages

Despite the opportunities, several challenges were identified:

• Inadequate packaging, labeling, and quality control among local suppliers.
• Inconsistent supply volumes and limited production scalability.
• Limited access to finance and working capital.
• Weak storage, transportation, and cold-chain infrastructure.
• Insufficient awareness of GO+ procurement standards and requirements.

Recommendations: To strengthen collaboration and local content integration, the following actions are recommended:

• Conduct targeted training for local suppliers on quality standards, packaging, food safety, and inventory management.
• Establish a structured local sourcing framework within GO+ that prioritizes qualified Sierra Leonean suppliers.
• Strengthen collaboration between GO+ and the SLLCA for supplier registration, certification, and matchmaking.
• Facilitate access to finance through partnerships with banks and development programs.
• Improve communication of procurement needs, standards, and opportunities to local businesses.
• Enhance SLLCA monitoring of supermarkets and hospitality establishments to ensure compliance with local content requirements.

 Conclusion: The engagement with RHINE AFRICA (GO+) demonstrated strong potential for building sustainable business market linkages between modern retail operations and local enterprises in Sierra Leone. When effectively aligned with the Local Content Agency’s mandate, these partnerships can promote domestic production, strengthen SMEs, create jobs, and contribute to inclusive economic growth. However, realizing these benefits will require deliberate efforts to address challenges related to quality standards, financing, logistics, and supplier capacity. Continued collaboration among GO+, local businesses, and government institutions remains critical to achieving long-term and sustainable outcomes.

Following an intensive period of technical capacity building training, mentorship, and coaching provided to entrepreneurs in two key value chains last year, a team headed by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA), Mr. Fodeba Daboh in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), held a two-day Pitching event for sixteen (16) local businesses in Bo and Bombali districts.

The pitching exercise which started on Wednesday, February 18^th, 2026 and ended on Friday, February 20^th, 2026 is part of the Phase Two of the ILO Opportunity Salone European Union (EU) funded project, titled: “Empowering Local Businesses to Improve Product Quality and Service Delivery in Sierra Leone”. The project aimed at strengthening, mentoring and coaching of local entrepreneurs on business growth in the cassava flour and the palm kernel oil value chains. The event brought together stakeholders from the District Councils, Sierra Leone Pharmacy Board, Sierra Leone National Bakers Union, ILO, and the Local Entrepreneurs, and others.

This pitching event aimed at identifying businesses that have gained positive impacts on business growth from the previous capacity training and mentoring they received from the industrial experts in the two value chains. The local businesses that participated in the pitching events are: The Holy Ghost, Augusta’s Kitchen, The Joshua Generation, God Will Soap, Hawane Soap, TMS and Hawa Investment and Akim Soap Making Cooperation in Bo district, and in Bombali district we have: Cassavity, Quedonoya Investment, Conteh Industries, Save Life Agro Farming Business, Ends Bright Ltd, HYGOs, Bee’s Agric  Investment, Kalump Women Empowerment Agric Business and Spring Blessed Bakery.

The Judges which were selected from various sectors of business enterprise and development specialists are: Madam Mary Alpha – Consultant from the Rural Farmer Radio, and Founder and CEO of Tok Farm, Mr. Abu Bakarr Bah Esq, Secretary General of the Sierra Leone National Bakers Union, and the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau, amongst others.

In his opening statement, the Director General of the Agency, Mr. Fodeba Daboh, emphasized the importance of competitiveness for local businesses, describing them as engines of economic growth. He encouraged entrepreneurs to strive for excellence in order to take advantage of opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), warning that failure to maintain quality and competitiveness could render local markets vulnerable and become a dumping ground for substandard goods.

Mr. Daboh reiterated that SLLCA remains committed to supporting local businesses and clarified misconceptions surrounding the project’s implementation funds. He explained that the Agency does not receive direct cash disbursements from the ILO; rather, it serves as a facilitator and matchmaker, identifying eligible local businesses in accordance with ILO project guidelines.

“The support provided under the project is largely in-kind rather than cash-based,” he emphasized.

In their presentations, the Local entrepreneurs showcased the knowledge they have acquired in their previous capacity training and mentorship received from the technical experts.

The Judges were pleased with the presentations made by the entrepreneurs, and encouraged entrepreneurs to uphold quality standards and maintain competitiveness, noting that adherence to best practices will position them to succeed not only locally but also in regional and international markets.

Selected businesses will undergo certification following this pitching exercise, after which, the SLLCA will recommend those businesses to ILO for inclusion in business incubator programs designed to enhance further support and growth opportunities.

 

The Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) in partnership with Serra Tropical Limited (STL) held a one day tripartite engagement meeting with the community stakeholders on Tuesday, 16^th December, 2025 at Momajo Place, Sumbuya- Lugbu Chiefdom.

The purpose of the meeting is to respond to a request made by the Managing Director of STL about the challenges the company is going through because of persistent theft cases derailing the operations of the company. The meeting brought together the Managing Director of STL- Mr. Kwame Wiafe, The SLLCA Director-General Mr. Fodeba Daboh, Hon Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, Paramount Chiefs of five chiefdoms, the Assistant Inspector General of Police- Southern Region, the Office of National Security, the Regional Fire Force Officer and other community stakeholders that are critical towards the development of the Chiefdom.

The Paramount Chief of Lugbu Chiefdom, Chief Ensa Badara Nallo gave the welcome statement and stressed the timeliness of the meeting to address the burning issues affecting the smooth operations of the company. The Hon Resident Minister Southern Region, Chief John Abu, in his opening statement talks about the role of the agency to address the challenges of the company. The Agency has a responsibility to investigate and solve complaints emanating from the company according section 14, subsection 2(j) of the SLLCA Act, 2016, noting that the presence of the company in Lugbu chiefdom is an opportunity they should own and take actions against people that are involved in theft of vehicle, pineapple, diesel amongst others. These are actions that will destroy the operations of the company, he said, and therefore called on every stakeholder present to own STL plantation and support the company’s operations.

The Managing Director of STL, Mr. Kwame Wiafe welcomed everyone present as a show of concern for the development. He also appreciated the Director-General for the commitment on the part of Government to promote the Local Content development. He mentioned the employment of Sierra Leonean nationals to two thousand and ninety (2,900) and they are highly paid, stressing that the least paid local staff of the company is even up to the best paid civil servants. There are other benefits that the company gives the staff noting that this is one of the best company that has given generational opportunities to the indigenes, he said. The original idea on the operations of the company was to have more than ten thousand hectares of land for cultivation, this will enhance the employment of high number of people, whether educated or not, mentioning that the company has employed up to three thousand local staff as other chiefdom people are also benefiting from this employment. He mentioned that the company had a partnership with UNDP to train young people as local entrepreneurs that will be beneficial to the community. The company has also sent local staff to be trained in Philippines and that these people will be coming to serve the people. These are enough reasons for the community to own the company and sustain it operations. He ended up expressing optimism for a fruitful discussion that will lead to the operations of the company for sustainability.

DG Local Content Agency thanked all stakeholders present and gave the background of the work of the agency guided by policies according to the Local Content Agency Act 2016. He mentioned the usual statements of the President in the state opening of Parliament strengthening the operations and implementations of Local Content policy in the country. He tells stakeholders that local content does not only mean the employment of the locals in the chiefdom but across the country as far as they are competent, though he reiterated that it is the requirement of STL to employ locals instead of bringing people outside. It is the role of the agency to sufficiently link local entrepreneurs to Sierra Leonean companies, noting that STL has the responsibility to give contracts to locals that have the capacity to deliver especially in the procurement unit, as the agency works with companies to put premium on the service sector. He also reiterated that we as Sierra Leoneans have the responsibility to sustain the operations of the company and he therefore called on the authorities that they have been critically selected to have critical role to ensure they stop the people that are destroying the investment of STL in the Lugbu Chiefdom.

The STL Human Resource Manager, Mr. Bernhard Attawia says the company’s challenges fall within theft of fuel, company materials, fertilizer, vehicle, and pineapple which is the pillar in the operations of the company. He reiterated that theft of pineapple is rampant and seriously affecting the company’s operation. He mentioned the incident of fire which is also on the increase affecting and destroying the effective operations of the company.

The Local Unit Commander, Mr. Augustine Kabia (CSP) LCA Bo West Division talks about the various commitment the Police have made to restore the chiefdom from what it used to be. He called on everyone to set example on those culprits that are involve in theft issues in the chiefdom, and reiterated the support of chiefdom stakeholders to work with him to jail those culprits involve in this act in order to stop the theft cases in the chiefdom.

Chief Mohamed Sefoi, chiefdom speaker of Lugbu Chiefdom made commitment that he has instructed his chiefdom people that anyone involve in theft case within his jurisdiction, he will suspend the town chief as the town chiefs must have an idea of the bad boys within the town. He emphasized on community policing within the chiefdom to eradicate the rampant theft cases in the chiefdom.

The Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu reiterated his commitment citing examples of the work he has done and the punishment of some bad boys that have been involved in theft cases under his regime. He called on the company to come to the level of the community stakeholders and work together. He mentioned that the chiefdom needs to jail the culprits as deterrent to others. Referencing the theft of the vehicle that belongs to the company, he called on the chief driver of the company to say something about the theft of that vehicle as something needs to be done to restore it to the company. He also mentioned the presence of electronic drone to monitor the employees operations so as to prevent these acts and called on the community people to take ownership of the company.

Paramount Chief (PC) Ensa Badara Nallo also talks about unity and collaboration that the company needs to work closely with them stating that the Human Resource Director of the company has no good relationship with the chiefdom authorities and stated that the company will not succeed if they do not work closely with them as chiefs.

The Managing Director of  STL gave the background of the theft case regarding the truck and the logistical supports given to Police, but nothing has been done to identify the culprit involved, and he urged them to facilitate their investigations. He said at a point he even suspected senior members of the company but the company cannot sack them as there has been no evidence against them. Another major challenge of the company has also been the incident of fuel theft, and the only thing the company does is to suspend the culprit out of the company but if the Police could investigate the matter and punish the culprit, this will serve as a deterrent to other intending culprits, he said. He made commitment to the chiefdom stakeholders to work with them and the Police going forward to comply with necessary changes that the company needs to enhance the smooth and effective operations of the company for sustainability.

Rev Father Francis Boima Kamara- as a servant of God stressed the need for the company to give loans to local entrepreneurs as this will help promote their local businesses. Chief Gbensie Lansana Nalloh, representing all town chiefs urged other town chiefs to support the operations of the company and reiterates the significance of the company to the indigenes of the chiefdom.

The SLLCA Director-General concluded the meeting and stressed on collaboration as one of the key lacking between the company and the stakeholders. He reiterated to the MD that the PCs are exceptional people and that he cannot succeed without the full cooperation of the Paramount chiefs. He called everyone present to move forward with the smooth operations of the company. The Agency’s Chief of Operations, Mr. Morlu Brewah stressed the need for development and urged them all to work together to sustain the company’s operation, he reminded all members to go back and reflect on this engagement that will lead to positive feedback on the company’s operation going forward.

The International Labor Organization in partnership with the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency and other development partners has ended a three day Opportunity Salone knowledge Sharing event and Exhibition at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Aberdeen from the 3r to the 5^th December, 2025. The event marked the presence of dignitaries, the Chief Minister- Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, The Minister of Trade and Industry- Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, Dr. Vanessa Phala-Moyo – the ILO country Director for Sierra Leone, Ghana, Liberia and Nigeria, Mr. Tonderai Manoto-the ILO Chief Technical Adviser for Sierra Leone. Local Content Agency Director-General- Mr. Fodeba Daboh, The Executive Director of SMEDA, Representatives of Ministries Department and Agencies (MDAs), other development partners and local business owners from across the country.

Day one marked by statements from various stakeholders and panel discussions of key participants where the Director-General, Mr. Fodebah Daboh made a succinct presentation on the support of ILO to local businesses in two key value chains, Cassava Flour in to bakery products and the Palm oil kernel in to beauty products implemented in four districts; Kenema, Makeni; Portloko and Bo districts. These businesses competed and the final competitors were awarded with some financial supports to improve on their business landscape by creating more jobs for other Sierra Leoneans. Day two and three were also marked by panel discussions where some panels were moderated by the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency. The programme had a business clinic and an exhibition center of local products where local business owners come to interact with business experts so as to seek solution to their business challenges

The Director-General, Fodeba Daboh in the last plenary discussion on institutional commitments to output delivery gave the following points: have MoU with Tourism Sector to ensure local products are displayed and sold, ensure local content goods and products are displayed at supermarkets/Hotels by enhancing market opportunities to local businesses, ensure greater awareness to local products, continue building capacity enhancement skills to local businesses, create market access to local entrepreneurs guided by the local content policy and ensure local entrepreneurs maintain standards and add quality to their products by working with the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau for reduced percentage discount on testing local products that will enhance them access to international exports competition.

The event ended with the giving of awards to partners, local businesses and stakeholders that have incredibly supported the work of Opportunity Salone project for sustainable development and economic growth in Sierra Leone.

On Wednesday, 7^th October, 2025 the Director of Foreign Trade and Industrial Development of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mr. Mikai Turay paid a courtesy call to the Director-General of the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency at his office at 21Steward Street in Freetown.

The purpose of this visit was to intimate the Director-General about the Ministry’s  partnership with the Agency on the implementation of Sierra Leones 1^st National Manufacturers Conference and Exhibition to be held at the International Conference Hall on the 29^th-30^th October, 2025.

In his opening statement, Mr. Turay said, this is a Presidential initiative brought to the attention of the Hon. Minister, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay. He said, considering the various complaints received by the President, he called on the Minister to bring these manufacturers together to identify key challenges they are going through and proffer possible recommendations in moving the Manufacturing sector forward for National Economic development as he would be in attendance. These challenges would be aired out by the Manufacturers on the first day and a communique would be prepared on the second day and submitted to the President by the President of the Manufacturers Association on behalf of his team.

The conference would be going alongside the exhibition, which is purely Made in Sierra Leone (MiSL) Exhibition. The story behind Made in Sierra Leone will never be completed without Local Content, he said. This is the reason he has come to meet the DG and team, the pioneers of Local Content to work together in the planning process so that where they have not done well, the Agency will take the lead in guiding the process by reaching out to the correct Local Entrepreneurs, at least 10 of them to showcase their local content products.

Responding, the Director-General- Fodeba Daboh stressed that MTI and LCA are one family referencing the social media notice he saw during his vacation and the many calls he received from people about MTI doing the work of the Agency on Local Content Exhibition. This is a misconception from the public, he said, but stressed the need to work together with the parent Ministry to pull this off, as this activity is purely local content.

The Deputy Communications and Outreach Manager stress the need to use this opportunity to showcase local content and the Communications Manager also requested for any possibility to extend the number of entrepreneurs above 10.

Director- Mikai Turay in his concluding statement promised to reach out to Chief Director and Professional Head of the Ministry and the Minister on the Agency’s concerns and revert to the Director-General on the way forward.

The Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) on Tuesday, September 30^th, 2025 held the third Quarterly Consultative Forum meeting, where it approved the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the three subcommittees which were created in the previous meeting, at the Agency’s Conference Hall in Freetown.

The meeting which was chaired by the Director General of the Agency, Mr. Fodeba Daboh brought together stakeholders from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID), Sierra Leone Union of Technicians (SLUTech), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEDA), Ministry of Employment and Labour, Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, and National Investment Board (NIB), among others.

The third Consultative Forum quarterly meeting focused on discussing, reviewing, and adopting the Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the Project Pipeline committee, Local Capabilities Mapping committee, and Policy and Regulation Subcommittees, as well as outlining the Way Forward for their work.

In his opening remarks, the Director General of the Agency, Mr. Fodeba Daboh welcomed the forum members particularly those who are just attending the Forum meeting for the very first time.

He explained that Section 66(1) mandates the establishment of the Sierra Leone Local Content Consultative Forum to facilitate information sharing and collaboration on upcoming projects, local capabilities, and relevant policy proposals for Sierra Leonean content development.

He pointed out that the Forum is there to enhance collaboration among MDAs and the private sector, primarily to look into other MDAs when it comes to projects, local capacity development and other related policy proposals, adding that the Forum will help the Agency in the implementation of local content related issues.

He emphasized that local content prioritizes Sierra Leoneans, not just through job creation, but also by generating wealth for locals. He stressed that with many natural resources going offshore, now is the right time to involve indigenous Sierra Leoneans in the mineral sector and prioritize them for contracts.

In his presentation on the ToR for the three subcommittees, Local Content Monitoring Manager of the National Mineral Agency (NMA) doubling as the Chairman of the Sierra Leone Local Content Consultative Forum (SLLCCF), Saa Lawrence Karminty explained that the subcommittees are created because the Agency’s act cut across every sector, noting that this is a huge job and for the Agency to be able to cover all of these sectors, they need these three Project Pipeline committee, Local Capabilities Mapping committee, and Policy and Regulation Subcommittees.

He added that the Project Pipeline subcommittee will identify major projects that will come into the country and see how these contracts will incorporate local content clauses that will create jobs for Sierra Leoneans.

He said that the Local Capabilities Mapping committee will look at the various potentials that the country have, adding that this committee will map out all the relevant skills available in country so that they will be available to take technical jobs in companies.

He explained that the Policy and Regulation Subcommittees will be responsible to review the Agency’s act, identify areas of mismatch with other laws, identify areas of compliances, noting that members of this subcommittee will look at every institution and ensure their compliance with the Agency’s Act.  

He said that when these subcommittees become operational, then the work of the agency becomes easier, adding that the Agency’s will only be collecting the data and analyzing it.

He disclosed that the subcommittees are expected to meet monthly.

He commends the Director General for operationalizing the Consultative Forum, noting that despite the Agency’s Act was enacted in 2016, but the implementation only stated in 2018 when President Bio was elected.  

The Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) and Serra Mineral Holdings Limited have on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 signed Local Content Plan Implementation Agreement, at the Agency’s Conference Hall in Freetown.

The signing ceremony was well attended by the senior management staff of the Serra Mineral Holdings Limited and staff of the Agency.

Speaking on the rationale of signing of the Local Content Plan Implementation Agreement, the Director General of SLLCA, Mr. Fodeba Daboh said that the signing represents a critical step in operationalizing the Sierra Leone Local Content Act of 2016 within the mining sector.

He explained that the agreement formalizes Sierra Mineral Holdings’ commitment to embed inclusive, sustainable, and legally compliant local content practices into its operations across workforce development, procurement, technology transfer, and broader economic contributions.

He added that the agreement establishes a structured framework for planning, implementing, and monitoring the company’s local content obligations, in alignment with national priorities such as job creation, skills development, and enterprise growth, adding that it also sets a clear, roadmap to ensure compliance with the Local Content Act, promoting transparency and accountability.

“His Excellency the President Rtd. Brig said “we must insist in the implementation of our local content laws in Sierra Leone” and this is what the Agency and Sierra Mineral Holdings Is here to compliment,” he added. “Ultimately, this agreement is a demonstration of mutual accountability and a shared vision, ensuring that foreign direct investment results in tangible, lasting benefits for the people and the economy of Sierra Leone.”

He stated that by signing of this agreement means that the company has agreed to fully comply with the Agency’s Act particularly when it comes to employment, training, human resource development and succession plan. He disclosed that he wants to see more Sierra Leoneans in managerial roles within the Company.

He is optimistic that the Company will work inline with the agreement, disclosing that the Agency will give the Company the technical support so that the agreement will be fully implemented.

Presenting the Certificate of Authorization, the Director General explained that Section 40(1) of the Local Content Agency Act requires all foreign companies operating in Sierra Leone to formally submit a Local Content Plan to the Agency. He noted that the certificate of authorization is only issued to companies whose plans have been submitted and approved, in line with this legal requirement, noting that the certificate has a securitized feature which is a QR Code that is unique only to the company.

The General Manager of Sierra Mineral Holdings Limited, Mr. Aleksei Panov said that they prioritized Sierra Leonean suppliers, transfer of skills, sustainable development growth. He said that 70 percent of their employees are from the mining communities, noting that they also give first consideration to local suppliers for the procurement of good and services.

He assured that the Company will fully implement the agreement.

The Director of Human Resources of Sierra Mineral Holdings Limited, Zhanna Volosevich said that the Company has worked inline with the Local Content outline, disclosing that they have many promotions within the Company. She said that they have succession plan which guides them.

She said that they have about 96 percent of Sierra Leoneans employed.

She said that local content is one of the most important institutions in country because it prioritizes Sierra Leoneans, commending the Director General and team for their hard work in ensuring that indigenous Sierra Leoneans are not only employed, but mining contracts are awarded to them.

She also commended the Director General for his guideline in ensuring that their company fulfils all the requirements for the award of Certificate of Authorization.

The signing ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Notice of Approval for the company’s 2025–2027 Sierra Leonean Content Plan, along with the issuance of a Certificate of Authorization.

In a bid to enhance the implementation of local content laws, the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) on Thursday, October 02, 2025 signed a partnership implementation agreement with Sonoco SL Limited, at the Agency’s Conference Hall in Freetown.  

The Director General of the Agency, Fodeba Daboh, stated that under Section 58 of the SLLCA Act 2016, all operators and contractors are required to sign an annual agreement with the Agency to integrate Sierra Leonean citizens into their workforce as exemplified by this partnership agreement signed with Sonoco SL Limited.

He said that agreement represents a critical milestone in operationalizing and integrating Local Content within their company’s framework, particularly the manufacturing and service sector in country, noting that both the Agency and the Company have made tangible commitments to ensure it full implementation.

This signing ceremony is a testament of Sonoco’s commitment to embed inclusive, sustainable and legally compliment local content practices in their operations across workforce development, procurement and technology transfer and broader economic contribution.

“His Excellency the President Rtd Brig said “we must insist in the implementation of our local content laws in Sierra Leone” and this is what the Agency and Sierra Mineral Holdings Is here to compliment,” he added, noting that the specific purpose of this signing is to ensure that the Company integrate Sierra Leonean talents, businesses and institutions into the value chain in a meaningful and progressive manner.

He explained that the agreement provides a structured framework for planning, implementing, and reporting local content obligations, aligns the Company’s initiatives with national development priorities particularly job creation, enterprise development and knowledge transfer, adding that the agreement establishes a transparent compliance roadmap to ensure accountability and measurable outcomes under the Local Content Act.

He pointed out that this agreement will lead to increased employment and skills development opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, prioritizes procurement and supplier development that will foster the growth and competitiveness of Sierra Leonean suppliers, enabling them to access contracts and build capacity through direct participation in the supply chain.

He furthered that the Company has committed to investing in the technological competence of Sierra Leonean staff and local firms through technology transfer, adding that Sonoco has the capacity for Sierra Leoneans to be capacitated. “Looking through the approved Local Content Plan, Sonoco is committing to invest in building Sierra Leone competence through trainings, joint ventures and access to modern tools and processes,” he said.

He stated that the Agency will give routine technical support to Sonoco SL Limited to facilitate linkages with local institutions, TVET training institutions and universities to support their workforce as well as to monitor compliance and performance in line with national priorities.

He thanked them for their show of commitment in Maximizing Local Content in their company’s $50 million flour mill investment, activities and operations in Sierra Leone.

The Managing Director of Sonoco SL Ltd, Mark Pritchard on the other hand made commitments to give priorities to Sierra Leoneans and Sierra Leonean businesses in terms of job creation and procurement, noting that Sonoco will also ensure increased participation of citizens in unskilled, semiskilled, skilled and management roles across all operations.

He said that both parties have made joint commitments, adding that they see this progressing in the future not just about compliance, but about collaboration and partnership.

He said that they are investing more $50 million in flour mill in country. He disclosed his love to helping Africans achieve its potentials.

He stated that while the company currently employs about 70 people, this number is expected to grow to around 350 when operations begin next year. He is optimistic that the next managing director could be a Sierra Leonean and highlighted the strong representation of Sierra Leoneans and women in leadership roles. Emphasizing their commitment to technology transfer, he pledged full support to the Agency for implementing the agreement, describing it as a living document integral to the company’s operations.

The signing ceremony was concluded with the presentation of the Notice of Approval for the company’s Sierra Leonean Content Plan, along with the issuance of a Certificate of Authorization.

Freetown, August 12, 2025 – The Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) held a meeting on Tuesday to continue with the discussion of the implementation of Phase II of the Opportunity Salone Project.

The purpose of the meeting was to familiarize with Mr. James S. Koroma, Founder and CEO of Business Services Company Ltd, who has joined the project team as key project partner to enhance data and delivery.

Like the Phase I, the Phase II also focuses on supporting entrepreneurs involved in the cassava flour and palm kernel oil value chains. The initiative which is funded by the European Union under the ILO’s Opportunity Salone Programme seeks to strengthen capacity, improve certification and quality control, and build consumer confidence in locally made products.

On behalf of the SLLCA and its Director General, the Chief of Operations Mr. Morlu Brewah welcomed the ILO team and Mr. James S. Koroma. He praised the ILO for their unwavering support to the agency, assuring them of continued collaboration and a healthy working relationship with him. He assured Mr. Koroma that the agency would work with him to achieve the sought out goal on behalf of the people of SL, particularly our local entrepreneurs. He emphasised that the gains to be made by the ILO and SLLCA would be data driven and evidence-based

Mr. Tonderai Manoto, the Chief Technical Advisor for the Opportunity Salone Project provided updates, noting that the project had undergone restructuring following the departure of its Communications Officer and the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer.

He said that the new partner [Mr. Koroma] will update the database and hopes that the data will be useful to SLLCA and other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), adding that Mr. Koroma will look at the available data to see how best it will be synchronised.

“Communications functions have now been subcontracted to a specialized firm,” he added. “Although there was a brief funding delay due in part, to additional funds being secured.”

He disclosed that the project has created about 1,000 jobs.

Mr. Koroma shared plans to review the project’s existing data and oversee its management. His team will conduct data collection in Bo, Port Loko, and other parts of the country, while also training field staff in effective data-gathering methods.

He disclosed that by September, initial progress reports are expected to be available, enabling other government agencies to better understand the project’s reach an impact.

The Director of Operations, Mohamed Sannoh emphasized that strong collaboration will be crucial to achieving project goals.

The Director of Skills, Mrs. Isata M. Fornah expressed confidence in the readiness of the team. Highlighting the success of Phase I, she stated that the agency looks forward to a smooth and impactful implementation of Phase II.