By: Audrey Raymonda John
Stakeholders in Koidu Town, Kono District, have commended Koidu Limited, one of Sierra Leone’s leading mining companies, for its unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its contributions to the government’s development agenda. The company has played a vital role in improving education, energy, employment, healthcare, and community development across the district.
In a recent interview, a prominent district stakeholder, Mr. Tamba, praised Koidu Limited as a well-established company dedicated to improving the welfare of its employees and the broader community.
He highlighted the company’s strong partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone and its efforts to enhance the lives of residents in mining communities.
“Koidu Limited has transformed many lives, especially in Koidu City and beyond,” Mr. Tamba stated.
He further noted that the company has undertaken numerous community projects, including constructing and renovating institutions such as the Kono Blind School, providing scholarships for hundreds of university students and covering tuition fees for all Kono District students enrolled in technical institutions, enhancing the district’s electricity supply by paying an annual electricity bill of approximately $1,000,000 to the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), building an ultra-modern maternity hospital to improve healthcare services and supporting the Koidu City Mayor’s office by supplying fuel for waste collection trucks.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Koidu Limited invested heavily in public health initiatives. The company built screening centres at all border entry points in Kono District, a project that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Additionally, since the introduction of the school bus system, Koidu Limited has continued to supply fuel for all three school buses serving the district, ensuring uninterrupted student transportation.
Another resident, Mr. Sahr Komba, highlighted the Power Purchase Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Koidu Limited, which has significantly improved electricity supply in the district.
He acknowledged that while global economic challenges have affected industries worldwide, Koidu Limited remains committed to upholding labour laws and maintaining a stable work environment for employees.
“Koidu Limited provides hundreds of jobs, directly supporting families across the district,” he stated. He urged the government to continue collaborating with the company to drive national development.
Speaking on job creation, Koidu City resident Madam Susan Tamba Sam praised the company’s efforts in reducing unemployment.
“Koidu Limited has provided jobs for our brothers, sisters, uncles, and fathers, helping to lower the unemployment rate in Kono,” she said.
She also commended the company for its compliance with national regulations, including tax contributions to the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and adherence to labour laws enforced by the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT).
She urged all stakeholders to support Koidu Limited’s ongoing development efforts, emphasising its crucial role in transforming Kono District.
“The company’s contribution to our community is undeniable. I encourage its management to continue prioritising corporate social responsibility,” she added.
Koidu Limited remains dedicated to sustainable development and enhancing the livelihoods of Kono District residents. As the company progresses, stakeholders emphasise the importance of strong partnerships between the government and corporate entities in fostering long-term growth and stability in Sierra Leone.
