By: Mohamed Sahr mohamedsahrpro@gmail.com
Sierra Rutile Limited is actively working to strengthen partnerships with local content operators in the mining ecosystem, as highlighted in a recent workshop at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. The workshop, attended by key stakeholders, aimed to enhance collaboration and commitment to maintaining best practices and implementing local content policies.
The Chief Executive Officer of Sierra Rutile Limited, Theuns Debruyn, emphasized the importance of proactive engagement with Sierra Leonean-owned businesses, suppliers, and contractors. Debruyn stated that the company would focus on enhancing collaboration, addressing challenges, and formulating strategies to create opportunities for both existing and potential contractors interested in doing business with them. Notably, Sierra Rutile allocates 65% of its procurement budgets annually to local companies, and Sierra Leonean citizens make up 97% of its workforce, with almost half coming from nearby communities.
Debruyn reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting and increasing opportunities for local enterprises. He highlighted the workshop’s role in maintaining compliance with Sierra Leone’s Local Content Act and Guidelines of 2016.
Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, the Minister of Trade and Industry, praised Sierra Rutile Limited for internalizing best practices, policies, and guidelines within the mining sector. He urged other companies to follow suit, emphasizing that regulatory policies are designed to help companies operate within the legal framework of the country and community.
Minister Sesay emphasized the role of local content as a driver of industrialization, promoting the use of domestic resources and inputs along value chains. He encouraged Sierra Rutile Limited to continue contributing to Sierra Leone’s socioeconomic development and employment rate.
Fodeba Dabor, Director General of the Local Content Agency, commended Sierra Rutile Limited’s commitment to local content delivery. He urged other companies to emulate this drive, emphasizing the importance of competitiveness and value addition.
Ibrahim Mansaray, CEO of Mano Mining and Logistics, highlighted the training program’s focus on providing opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, including women, who are trained as contractors. The aim is to benefit every region and district, contributing to self-sustainability for individuals and families.
A representative from the National Mineral Agency praised the workshop for its emphasis on compliance and recognized its potential impact on promoting industry best practices within the mining sector and the wider economy. The workshop aligns with the goals set by the Government of Sierra Leone to stimulate domestic and international trade, bolster investment, and fuel economic growth.
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