By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
Marampa Mines Limited (MML), a key player in Sierra Leone’s mining industry, is set to mark two historic milestones that will redefine the mining sector and transform the lives of local communities.
On Friday, January 24, 2025, the company will present its Community Development Fund (CDF) for 2023 and 2024 and commission its groundbreaking expansion to produce 3.75 million tonnes per year of high-grade iron ore.
The expansion, coined “M3.75,” is the company’s largest investment to date, enhancing its annual production capacity to 3.75 million tonnes of high-grade iron ore. This achievement solidifies Marampa’s leadership in sustainable mining while integrating cutting-edge technologies. Among these is Sierra Leone’s first cyclone deposition system for tailings management, enabling safer, environmentally responsible dry stacking practices.
“This expansion underscores our commitment to operational excellence and environmental stewardship,” said Craig Dean, Executive Chairman of Marampa Mines Limited. “It’s a step forward for Sierra Leone and the global mining industry.”
The development introduces hard rock mining at Marampa, ensuring a mine life of 100 years. With optimized workflows and economies of scale, the project ensures stability and profitability even during market fluctuations. This expansion also bolsters the Marampa Blue brand’s position in the international market, offering premium-grade iron ore.
As part of its Community Development Agreement (CDA), Marampa Mines will present the largest-ever contribution to local communities by any mining company in Sierra Leone. Allocating 1% of Free-on-Board revenue, the fund will focus on education, healthcare, economic growth, and environmental sustainability within the Marampa and Maforki chiefdoms.
“The 2023 and 2024 CDF presentation highlights our dedication to creating lasting value for the communities that host us,” Dean said. The fund is managed by the Community Development Committee (CDC) and its Steering Committee, which operates autonomously to prioritize projects addressing the most pressing community needs.
The CDF’s transformative potential lies in its scope and focus on sustainable impact. Marampa Mines collaborates closely with the CDC to ensure that initiatives funded are both meaningful and enduring.
“We believe in creating positive, long-term change,” Dean added. “Our success is intertwined with the prosperity of the communities surrounding us, and we are committed to ensuring that they share in the benefits.”
The official ceremony to present the Community Development Fund and commission the expanded production capacity will take place today, January 24, 2025. These initiatives cement Marampa Mines as a global leader in sustainable iron ore production, while fostering enduring partnerships with local communities.
Marampa Mines Limited, owned by the Gerald Group, is a leading iron ore mining company in Sierra Leone. It is committed to innovation, sustainability, and empowering communities through strategic investments and partnerships.
This monumental step forward exemplifies Marampa Mines’ dedication to excellence, environmental responsibility, and community development, setting a gold standard for Sierra Leone’s mining sector and beyond.
