In a move to underscoring its commitment to community engagement and development, Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) has embarked on a series of courtesy visits to Paramount Chiefs and Regent Chiefs across its operational chiefdoms in Port Loko, Karene, and Bombali Districts.
The General Manager of KRP, Mr. Charlie Chen, , led a delegation of senior staff, including the Community and Security Manager, Mr. Mohamed Turay and Administrator, Mr. Hamaru A. Jalloh on a “Meet the Chiefs” tour. This initiative builds on the company’s tradition of meeting communities where they are, rather than only inviting them to company premises for discussions.
The tour was designed to strengthen the relationship between the company and local stakeholders, while also reaffirming respect for traditional authorities who serve as custodians of the land on which the company operates. Mr. Chen explained that the visits provided a platform for frank dialogue, allowing chiefs to voice their concerns, suggestions, and expectations directly to senior management.
“As a company, we are not only focused on business but also on building stronger communities. The expansion of the Port and Rail, along with the construction of a processing plant, will contribute to national development, but it can only succeed with the full cooperation of the communities,” Mr. Chen stated.
Mr. Turay added that the “Meet the People” approach reflects LRMG’s core values of respect, sharing, and cooperation, making community dialogue more inclusive and effective.
Eight paramount and regent chiefs warmly received the delegation, including representatives from Kamasondo, Bakeh Loko, Maforki, Marampa, Romende, Gbanti and Safroko Limba chiefdoms.. The chiefs described the initiative as a move in the right direction, praising the company for prioritizing engagement and transparency.
They further commended the Community and Security Department for maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring peaceful coexistence between the company and its host communities.
In line with cultural values and company tradition, the company presented tokens of appreciation to each of the chiefs, Beyond symbolism, the gesture reaffirmed the company’s respect for traditional authority.
The meetings also gave Mr. Chen and his team valuable first-hand insights into life within operational communities. He assured the chiefs that their requests would be carefully considered and addressed within company policies, acknowledging that LRMG is committed to working on the unique challenges faced by port and rail communities.
The Paramount Chiefs expressed gratitude for the company’s concern and reiterated their support for its operations. They emphasized the company’s significant contributions to the GDP of Sierra Leone, pledging to stand with LRMG as it continues its journey of growth and community partnership.
In conclusion, Mr. Chen thanked the chiefs for their longstanding support since the company’s inception, promising that LRMG would remain steadfast in its mission of doing business while developing communities and the nation at large.
