By: Aminata Sesay
Parliament has ratified a major trade and investment agreement aimed at expanding local manufacturing, creating jobs, and strengthening Sierra Leone’s position within the ECOWAS regional market.
During its sitting on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, Members of Parliament unanimously approved an agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and JOLAKS Manufacturing Company Limited. The deal is expected to accelerate industrial production and generate additional employment opportunities across the country.
The agreement, originally signed in September 2025, supports the expansion of JOLAKS’ operations. The locally established company has been producing vegetable oil since 2012 and has grown into a key player in domestic manufacturing. Presenting the agreement before Parliament, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, described the investment as a significant boost to local production. He noted that the company has met all regulatory requirements and intends to diversify its product range.
According to the Minister, the project represents an estimated US$45 million investment and is projected to create substantial new employment opportunities nationwide. He further disclosed that JOLAKS has already generated more than 700 jobs, underscoring its contribution to local value addition and industrial development.
While welcoming the agreement, Members of Parliament emphasized the need for accountability, community engagement, and inclusive growth. Lawmakers called for strong parliamentary oversight, strict adherence to labour and environmental standards, and compliance with the national 30 percent female representation policy. They also urged the company to strengthen its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in host communities.
Parliamentarians highlighted key provisions in the agreement relating to mandatory corporate social responsibility, youth employment, staff training, and employee welfare. Members from both sides of the House agreed that sustained collaboration among investors, host communities, and elected representatives is critical to ensuring long-term success.
Closing the debate, the Leader of Government Business reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors while safeguarding the interests of Sierra Leoneans. The Minister of Trade and Industry assured Parliament that concerns related to labour standards, environmental protection, and stakeholder engagement would be addressed as the project moves into full implementation.
The ratification marks a significant step in the Government’s broader strategy to promote industrialization, attract investment, and stimulate sustainable economic growth.