In a ground-breaking move that underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility, Leone Rock Metal Group, a leading player in the mining industry, has embarked on an ambitious solar lighting installation project to alleviate the energy crisis faced by Telu Bongor Town in Bo District, Southern Province. This laudable initiative undertaken by the company aims to provide reliable and environmentally friendly lighting solutions to improve the lives of residents in Telu Bongor Town.
On Sunday, May 28, 2023, officials from LRMG installed 16 solar lights worth millions of old Leones to the Tellu Bongor Town in Bo District, Southern Province. The event, attended by The Paramount Chief, PC Michael Foday Kai, the outgoing Hon. Member of Parliament, Consistency 081; Joseph W. Lamin; Youth Representatives, LRMG personnel, and esteemed guests, witnessed the groundbreaking occasion, characterized by heartfelt speeches, mainly from the beneficiaries of this transformative initiative. Residents stepped forward, taking turns in sharing their stories and expressing their gratitude for the newfound light that now fills their homes and streets.
Leone Rock Metal Group, known for its commitment to responsible and sustainable practices, collaborated closely with Tellu Bongo’s local leaders and community members to implement this life-changing initiative. Through the installation of solar panels and energy-efficient LED lights, the village has undergone a remarkable transformation.
This momentous investment by LRMG highlights the company’s commitment to contribute to sustainable renewable energy in Sierra Leone and it highlights the potential of renewable energy in providing sustainable solutions and improving the lives of residents in Telu Bongor Town.
The solar light project involved the installation of solar panels on sixteen strategic positions in Telu Bongo Town, which harness the abundant sunlight in the region to generate clean and renewable electricity. With this type of electricity transmission, energy can be stored during the day and utilized during the night.
Speaking during the installation exercise, Ahaji Suba Conteh, LRMG’s Public Relations Assistant, emphasized the company’s commitment to making a positive impact, stating, “We believe in harnessing our resources and expertise to contribute to the well-being of communities by providing access to sustainable energy, we aim to positively impact Tellu Bongor Town by enhancing educational opportunities, empower women, as well-lit streets and public spaces, reduce the risk of accidents and promote a sense of security’’.
Paramount Chief PC Micheal Foday Kai, took to the stage and thanked the company for its laudable developmental strides throughout Sierra Leone. He addressed the audience with emotion in his voice. “We have lived in darkness for far too long, but today we celebrate a new era of light and hope. The solar lights have not only brought illumination to our village but also ignited a sense of pride and progress,’’ He concluded.
Hon. Member of Parliament Consistency 081 Joseph W. Lamin, embraced the initiative, noting that the solar light installation project is timely. He furthered that Tellu Bongo Town had been grappling with limited access to electricity, hindering progress and hampering the villagers’ daily activities after sunset, but with the installation of the solar lights, however, the village will be illuminated, transforming the night into a time of productivity and connectivity.
‘’This successful implementation of the solar light project in Tellu Bongor Town would not have been possible without the collective efforts of LRMG, community heads, Paramount Chiefs and local authorities. The company’s collaboration and commitments to residents of Telu Bongor Town, has brought about a transformative change that will continue to benefit the villagers for years to come’’, Mr Lamin concluded.
This pioneering endeavour championed by LRMG in Telu Bongor serves as a shining example for other communities facing similar challenges. It highlights the company’s commitments and the potential of renewable energy in providing sustainable solutions and improving the lives of people living in remote areas. As solar power continues to gain traction worldwide, this initiative by LRMG offers hope and paves the way for a brighter, greener future.
PR & Media Unit, LRMG
