By: Mohamed M. Sesay
Honorable Members of the Final Session of the Fifth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone, have on Tuesday the 9th March 2023, ratified over UDS 15 Million Capitol Trade and investment agreement which geared towards revitalizing the economic development of Sierra Leone.
Presenting the Government Motion, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Haja Isata Abdulia Kamara, recalled the establishment of the Capitol Food Products and explained investment in the products. She categorically informed that the company produced bon chic drunks and an exportation system. The Deputy Minister also informed that the company predicates on local content policy and more employment. She assured Members of Parliament that the agreement would result in economic growth and development coupled with more employment opportunities for locals.
Hon Charles Abdulai said the agreement is a continuation of the capitol investment. He stated that the agreement is not controversial, but some areas need to be scrutinized especially on exportation in light of domestic use.
He added that the tax exemption is resalable and employment as well. He said the Capitol Food Products, is so beneficial and the agreement is good for the people of Sierra Leone.
Hon. Dr. Abu Kaloko of the All People’s Congress Party (APC) spoke about the investment capacity of the company and informed the House that, they as Opposition would always support what is good. He highlighted the potential investment opportunities of the company and safety measures as well as the payment of taxation.
Hon. Sahr Charles raised concerns on Corporate Social Responsibility in consultation with EPA, employment of Sierra Leone in senior management position in meeting the expectation of the company. He also pinned on areas relating to paying yield to local content policy and people who may have accidents during operation but are not catered for. He added that the time frame of conducting operation in light of the initial stage were in place. He however, expressed worries not to envisage excuses from the company’s operation and Standard Bureau to step up to ensure standards. He described the agreement as a good one that has the propensity to open employment for citizens.
The Acting leader of the Opposition Hon. Hassan Sesay said they would always support what is development. He spoke on the foreign exchange expectation of the company and the economic boom. He also Spoke about the environment, felt needs of the people, and the company’s compliance with due diligence and training of locals to improve job capacity. He therefore, encourage the company to provide medical for their workers. He expressed optimism that all that is in the agreement or paper would be implemented.
The leader of Government Business Hon. Mathew Nyuma clarified that the company had already spelled around 15 million dollars. He spoke about the level of production capacity and affordability. He also admonished on the responsibility of the company in light of support to local farmers and the responsibility of the government regarding agribusiness and improving the livelihood of the farmers.