Koidu Limited Loses Over $6 Million to Workers’ Strike


Koidu Holdings Limited has submitted a preliminary report to the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources detailing the impacts of the recent industrial strike in Kono District, which  has now dragged on for nearly five weeks and is estimated to have cost the company between $6 million and $8 million in production losses.

The Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, confirmed receipt of the report while speaking at a press briefing in Freetown, and further expressed concern over the significant disruption to operations at the company’s diamond mine.

The strike, which gained public attention following support from First Lady Fatima Bio and employees, was reportedly triggered by disagreements over wages and salary increments, pointing to a broader industrial dispute and financial standoff between workers and management.

“The company is deeply worried about the production losses incurred. This disruption affects not just their operations but also national export figures and economic output.” the Minister stated.

Reportedly, Koidu Holdings is one of Sierra Leone’s flagship mining operations, contributes roughly 12% of the country’s total export value, with a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees, mostly nationals. At one point, the sector’s export contribution had dropped drastically from 8.8% to 2.3%, highlighting the volatility of the industry.

Minister Mattai explained that, despite the ongoing strike, the company has managed to maintain some operations under what is known as “Care and Maintenance” mode, a scaled-down system designed to preserve machinery and critical systems until full production resumes.

“They realized that if most national staff return to work, they can still manage some level of production without completely shutting down,” he noted.

The minister also pointed to provisions in the revised Mines and Minerals Act, which allows licensed mining companies a 100-day notification period in the event of a strike or technical emergency. This legal window enables companies to engage relevant authorities while taking precautionary or corrective action.

However, Mattia clarified that while the Ministry of Mines focuses on health, safety, and technical operations, labor-related grievances fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

“There’s a clear distinction in roles. When it comes to industrial actions triggered by salary disputes or working conditions, it’s the Ministry of Labour that takes the lead,” he emphasized.

The situation remains under review as stakeholders, including Koidu Holdings, government officials, and labor representatives, continue discussions aimed at resolving the standoff and restoring full operations




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Bank of Sierra Leone Extends Deadline for National Payments Switch Integration


The Bank of Sierra Leone has announced an extension of the deadline for all financial institutions and fintech companies to fully integrate into the National Payments Switch.

In a press release issued on April 10, the bank stated that the new deadline is now set for June 30, 2025, extending the original date of March 31, 2025.

This extension is aimed at accommodating financial institutions and fintechs that were not ready to complete their integration by the initial deadline. All institutions are now required to route all domestic transactions through the National Switch to enhance the efficiency and security of payments in Sierra Leone.

The Bank of Sierra Leone has formally instructed all financial institutions and fintechs that have not yet joined the National Switch to engage with the National Switch Department to ensure complete integration into the system.

Additionally, the bank has confirmed that all existing bilateral arrangements between financial institutions and fintechs will remain permissible during the extended period from March 31 to June 30, 2025. By the end of this period, the Bank of Sierra Leone expects all institutions to be fully integrated into the National Payments Switch.




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What Sierra Leoneans Ought to Know About Trump’s 10% Tariffs


Sierra Leone’s exports to the USA will confront a 10% tariff, but specific products affected aren’t listed. Be that as it may, considering Sierra Leone’s export profile, likely impacted products may include:

Rutile and other minerals.

Agricultural Products: Exports like cocoa, coffee, and other agricultural commodities might also face the 10% tariff.
Other products : The country also exports other products like titanium ore, aluminum ore, and fish, but these might not be specifically destined for the US market.

Exports to the USA account for a moderately small portion of its GDP. According to the available data, in 2024, Sierra Leone’s total exports were valued at $1.54 billion, with the majority going to countries like China, South Korea, and the Netherlands.

As for GDP, Sierra Leone’s economy is valued at $7.41 billion in 2024, with a GDP per capita of $856.

IMPACT

A 10% US tariff on Sierra Leone’s exports would likely have a negative impact on the country’s GDP. Sierra Leone’s economy relies heavily on exports, particularly in the mining and agricultural sectors.

An increase in tariffs would make Sierra Leone’s exports more expensive for US consumers, potentially leading to a decrease in demand and subsequently, a decline in exports.

This decrease in exports would likely have a ripple effect on Sierra Leone’s economy, impacting various sectors, including employment, investment, and government revenue. As a result, the country’s GDP could contract, exacerbating poverty and inequality.

Trade Imbalance: Sierra Leone has a trade deficit with the US, which means it imports more from the US than it exports. A 10% tariff on Sierra Leone’s exports to the US could worsen this imbalance, potentially hurting Sierra Leone’s economy.

Key Trade Figures :

US Exports to Sierra Leone: $109.67 million
US Imports from Sierra Leone*: $29.61 million
So, as of 2024, the trade balance is $80.06million in favor of the US.

– Trade composition : Sierra Leone’s exports to the US are mainly raw materials like diamonds, iron ore, and cocoa beans. These products might become more expensive for US consumers due to the tariff, potentially reducing demand and affecting Sierra Leone’s export revenue.

– Economic impact: The tariff could lead to higher prices for Sierra Leonean goods in the US market, making them less competitive. This might result in reduced exports, lower government revenue, and a potential decline in GDP.

With Sierra Leone’s current GDP at $7.41 billion, let’s recalculate the impact of a 10% tariff on its exports to the US.

Sierra Leone’s Trade with the US

– Export Value : Sierra Leone’s exports to the US are valued at $27 million.
– Tariff Rate: A 10% tariff would increase the cost of these exports by $2.7 million.

Impact on GDP
– Tariff Cost as a Percentage of GDP*: The $2.7 million tariff cost would be equivalent to about 0.036% of Sierra Leone’s GDP ($7.41 billion).

It’s worth noticing that Sierra Leone is not alone in facing US tariffs . Numerous African countries are subject to varying tariff rates, ranging from 10% to as high as 93% in the case of Madagascar. However, the impact of these tariffs can be particularly severe for smaller economies like Sierra Leone, which depend heavily on international trade to drive growth and development.

Any slowdown in China would matter more to Sierra Leone. The share of Sierra Leone’s exports going to China is triple that going to the US. It does not look likely that US taxes will cause a very high amount of pain to China, or to its trading partners.

Top Export Partners :
– China: 18.3% of Sierra Leone’s global exports, with a value of $1.03 billion in 2023
– India: 96.5 million
– Belgium: 72.5 million

Sierra Leone should be worried because taxes are inflationary, and they might prompt the US Federal Reserve to raise interest rates, or cut interest rates.

In conclusion, whereas the 10% USA tax might have a negative impact on Sierra Leone’s GDP, the extent of this impact will depend on various factors, including trade agreements and diversification efforts. Sierra Leone must diversify our exports, the trouble is President Bio doesn’t understand the ECONOMY.




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Pee Cee & Sons Secures $12 Million International Funding to Develop Onion Farm in Sierra Leone


The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has committed $12 million to support the development of Sierra Leone’s first commercial-scale onion farming operation, in partnership with Pee Cee Holding Ltd. (PCH).

The investment is expected to transform the country’s agricultural landscape, boost local food production, and reduce dependence on imported onions.

The funding will go to Pee Cee Agriculture (PCA), the agribusiness subsidiary of PCH, to establish a fully irrigated and mechanized 500-hectare farm. The facility will produce over 40,000 tons of onions annually, alongside other essential crops such as maize and potatoes. Designed to operate year-round, the project integrates precision irrigation technology, modern machinery, and advanced storage systems to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance supply chain efficiency.

“This investment is a game-changer for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector,” said Mahesh Nandwani, CEO of PCH. “With IFC’s support, we are proving that high-quality, large-scale food production is achievable within the country—building a model for food security, job creation, and long-term sustainability.”

The project comes at a critical time for Sierra Leone, where the majority of onions and several key staples are still imported. By strengthening domestic production, the initiative aims to make food more accessible and affordable, while also offering employment and skills training opportunities, particularly for rural women.

Beyond funding, IFC has played a significant role in developing PCA’s model over the past four years. The partnership included technical advisory support to improve operational efficiency, environmental performance, and risk mitigation. Pilot programs led by IFC demonstrated dramatic improvements, with onion yields increasing tenfold compared to national averages.

“Investing in sustainable agriculture is essential for building economic resilience and reducing reliance on imports,” said Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa. “This partnership with PCH sets a new standard for commercial farming in Sierra Leone and across the region.”

PCH, which started as Pee Cee & Sons and has grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most prominent consumer goods companies, is leveraging its extensive distribution network to ensure local market access for the farm’s output. Through its subsidiaries, including Milla Group and Jolaks Manufacturing, PCH has already demonstrated its capacity for industrial innovation and market leadership.

This venture into agriculture represents a strategic expansion for the group, with a strong focus on climate-smart farming, food system resilience, and community impact. It also aligns with IFC’s broader goals of fostering inclusive private sector development across Africa.

With construction underway and a strong foundation already in place, the PCA project is expected to serve as a blueprint for future agri-investments in West Africa, delivering long-term value to farmers, consumers, and the wider economy.




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Odhav Multi Industries Dismisses Misleading Claims, Reaffirms High-Quality Steel Manufacturing


The Management of Odhav Multi Industries (SL) Limited has issued a firm and unequivocal statement in response to misleading claims circulating on social media regarding the quality and specifications of its iron rods.

The company categorically dismisses these allegations as baseless and deliberately misleading, seemingly orchestrated by individuals with vested interests who fear legitimate competition in the market.

Odhav Multi Industries, a leader in the steel manufacturing sector, it has been confirmed, has consistently upheld the highest standards of quality in its products. The Sierra Leone Standards Bureau, the authoritative regulatory body for product compliance, has rigorously tested and verified that the company’s iron rods not only meet but surpass industry benchmarks. These assessments have established beyond any doubt that Odhav’s products adhere to all requisite specifications, ensuring they are fit for purpose in various construction applications.

Addressing the specific concerns raised in the circulating video, Management reiterates that all iron rods produced by the company conform precisely to the required measurements. The accusations suggesting otherwise are entirely misleading and intended to create unwarranted doubt among consumers. Odhav Multi Industries maintains an unwavering commitment to quality control, employing stringent measures throughout its manufacturing processes to guarantee consistency and excellence in every product released into the market.

As the first fully automatic steel manufacturing plant in Sierra Leone with its own dedicated power project, Odhav Multi Industries is at the forefront of industrial advancement, playing a pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s manufacturing capabilities. The company remains steadfast in its mission to contribute to the country’s economic growth by providing reliable, high-quality steel products that support infrastructure development and enhance national self-sufficiency.

In a move to further solidify its position as a key player in Sierra Leone’s industrial sector, Odhav Multi Industries is expanding its product line to include wire nails, roofing sheets, binding wires and industrial gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. This strategic diversification not only underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the nation’s development but also promises to create new employment opportunities and reduce the country’s reliance on imported construction materials.

Management urges the public to disregard the unfounded claims circulating online and instead rely on factual, verified information from trusted sources. The company remains committed to transparency and customer satisfaction, standing resolute in its dedication to providing high-quality products that meet international standards, it further assures. Odhav Multi Industries will continue to pioneer advancements in steel manufacturing, ensuring that its contributions to Sierra Leone’s construction and industrial landscape remain unparalleled, one of the company’s officials affirmed.




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Orange Sierra Leone Commitment to Reliable Mobile Network Services in Sierra Leone


Orange Sierra Leone (OSL) is committed to providing the best telecommunications services to all Sierra Leoneans.

Orange Sierra Leone PRO, Alfie Barrie commented that “The Company has invested over $50 million in network expansion and modernization and that its significant investment included swapping more than 500+ sites to 4G, even in the most remote area”.

He further stated that “the dedicated technicians worked tirelessly through challenging times and extreme weather conditions to complete these installations, demonstrating commitment to connecting all communities”.

Adding that “the Company acknowledges the disruptions to customers experience that occurred during the network upgrade. Some of the challenges encountered by the operator were also caused by factors such as unavailability of internet service from third-party service providers, malicious damage to the fibre connections and disruptions to the company’s energy supply.”.

Despite these hurdles, Orange is proud to announce that all its sites are now on 4G, providing faster internet speeds and improved quality in voice and data. The Company’s commitment to powering its operations is further demonstrated by an investment of up to $17million on energy optimization.

At a time when telecoms companies are battling with Infrastructural limitations in underserved areas, as rural areas often lack the requisite incentives required to attract high-cost traditional telecommunication sites, which continues to leave huge amount of people deprived off connectivity limiting their economic ability to expand and connect with other businesses, Orange Sierra Leone is excited to announce the launch of its ten (10) new solar powered deep rural sites enhancing connectivity for underserved areas and enabling small businesses to expand and grown through enhanced connectivity opening them up to more opportunities. The 10 deep rural sites are now on air at the following provincial towns: Sahn, Fanima, Tawuya, Pehala, Gbonkonka, Robaka, Mabang Mamutha, Falla, Futta.

Mr Barrie stated that “Orange remains strong and focused despite facing many intimations from the media with intent to tarnish the reputation of and credibility of the brand and considers recent media publications attacking the leadership of the company to be malicious and unfounded. The company’s brand values of care, responsible and bold are firmly rooted in its culture and will continue meet the meets of its customer and provide an unmatched customer experience”.

Orange Sierra Leone remains resolute to increase it network availability across the Country. Orange is Here! Orange De ya!




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RCBank MD Supports Launch of Eastern Farmers Poultry Feed Mill


The Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank), Dr Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, reaffirmed the bank’s unwavering support for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector at the commissioning of the Eastern Farmers Poultry Feed Mill Plant on March 12, 2025.

The event, held in Samuel Town, Matindi Benguema, Waterloo, marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance food security and promote self-sufficiency in livestock farming.

Accompanied by key members of his team, Dr Gilpin highlighted RCBank’s commitment to empowering farmers and aligning with the government’s Feed Salone initiative. He emphasized the bank’s dedication to fostering agricultural development, financial inclusion, and rural economic growth across Sierra Leone.

The initiative received widespread commendation from the CEO of the Eastern Farmers Poultry Association and the Ministry of Agriculture, who lauded RCBank’s continuous efforts in supporting local communities and strengthening the agricultural value chain.

Minister of Agriculture Prince Henry Kpaka praised EFAGE’s initiative, emphasizing that Sierra Leone must reduce its reliance on food imports.

“We have no business importing poultry products when we can produce them locally. Currently, the government spends between $15 and $20 million annually on poultry imports,” Minister Kpaka remarked. He added that the feed mill aligns with the Feed Salone initiative, which aims to achieve food security through local production. He further urged the private sector to take the lead in these efforts.

Speaking at the event, EFAGE Chairman Sahr Jusu emphasized the urgent need for strategic investments in the poultry sector. He noted that by 2024, it had become evident that the industry required a reliable supply of high-quality feed to ensure sustainable growth.

“We recognized the critical need for targeted investment in feed formulation to enhance productivity,” Jusu stated. To address this gap, EFAGE partnered with Trouw Nutrition, a subsidiary of Nutreco in the Netherlands, which boasts 125 years of expertise in animal nutrition and concentrate formulation.

The newly constructed Eastern Farmers Poultry Feed Mill is set to revolutionize poultry farming in eastern Sierra Leone. By enabling farmers to produce and sell high-quality animal feed locally, the plant will significantly reduce reliance on costly imports and create a more sustainable and resilient supply chain.

This initiative is expected to:

Enhance food security by ensuring a steady supply of affordable poultry feed.

Generate employment opportunities across various sectors, from production to distribution.

Boost the livestock industry, making poultry farming more profitable for local farmers.

As part of its broader strategy to uplift farming communities, RCBank launched its Agency Banking initiative in December 2023—a groundbreaking move aimed at expanding financial access to rural and underserved areas.

By providing cost-effective, accessible banking solutions through a network of banking agents, RCBank is bridging the financial gap and empowering farmers to manage their finances more efficiently.

With the establishment of the new feed mill, young farmers across eastern Sierra Leone will now have the opportunity to produce high-quality animal feed using 100% locally sourced ingredients.

By continuously investing and supporting agricultural initiatives, financial inclusion, and rural development, RCBank remains a catalyst for economic transformation in Sierra Leone.




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Orange Sierra Leone Launches 7th Edition of Social Venture Prize to Boost Innovation and Entrepreneurship


Orange Sierra Leone has announced the launch of the 7th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Sierra Leone, coinciding with the 15th edition in Africa and the Middle East. This initiative aims to support social innovation and foster local entrepreneurship within the region.

The competition officially opens for applications today, March 11th, 2025. Applicants from Sierra Leone and the 16 other Orange affiliates in Africa and the Middle East are required to submit their applications for both the National and International competitions. The deadline for applications is May 18th, 2025.

Interested applicants can register and submit their applications at: https://poesam.orange.com/en/

Additional information about the OSVP can be found at: https://www.orange.com/en/osvp

Through this competition, Orange Sierra Leone seeks to contribute to human capital development, support local social and environmental innovations, and encourage entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone.

Since 2019, the OSVP has recognized innovative projects in various fields, including education, healthcare, e-commerce, and agriculture, as well as projects that contribute to achieving sustainable development goals through digital technology.

The competition will be held in two stages:

1. National Stage:

  • Applications for the National and Women’s competitions will be accepted from March 11th to May 18th, 2025.
  • A national pitch competition will be held in August 2025 to award the National and Women’s category winners.
  • The winners will receive the following prizes:
    • NLe 200,000 – National Winner
    • NLe 120,000 – Women’s Winner

2. International Stage:

  • The National and Women’s category winners from each subsidiary in the 17 Orange affiliates will automatically be selected for the international phase.
  • Following evaluation, 10 finalists will be chosen.
  • A final jury of African tech influencers will select the top 3 winners of the OSVP International Grand Prize in October/November 2025.
  • An International Women’s Prize will also be awarded for the fifth consecutive year to a woman offering a technological solution to improve the living conditions of women. This includes solutions focused on women’s independence, job creation or preservation, gender data collection, and digital and financial inclusion.
  • The winners of the international and women’s competition will receive the following prizes:
    • €25,000 for 1st place international winner
    • €15,000 for 2nd place international winner
    • €10,000 for 3rd place international winner
    • €20,000 for Women’s international winner

About Orange Sierra Leone

Orange Sierra Leone is a leading telecommunications operator and service provider in Sierra Leone, licensed by the National Communication Authority. The company is dedicated to meeting the socio-economic needs of the society. Orange Sierra Leone’s strategic objective is to become a responsible Corporate Social Investor and to improve the daily lives of the people in Sierra Leone through responsible and valuable digital experiences.

Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA)

Orange has a presence in 18 countries across Africa and the Middle East, serving over 143 million customers as of December 31, 2022. With revenues of 6.9 billion euros in 2022, Orange MEA is the Orange group’s leading growth area. Orange Money, its mobile-based money transfer and financial services offering, is available in 17 countries and has more than 80 million customers. As a multi-service operator, Orange is a key partner in the digital transformation, providing expertise to support the development of new digital services in Africa and the Middle East.




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Orange Money Awarded As Leader In Financial Inclusion In Sierra Leone


In February 2025, at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Orange Money received an impressive recognition at the Western African Bankers awards night as “Leader in Financial Inclusion in Sierra Leone”.

This prestigious award acknowledged the company’s outstanding contributions to enhancing financial access and empowering the underserved population across various regions in Seirra Leone.

The award ceremony was organized by the West African Bankers’ Association to honour key players driving financial innovation and inclusion across the region.

Mr. Joseph Tengbeh, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing at OMFSL, accepted the award on behalf of Orange Money SL and commenting on the award he stated that “the award solidifies Orange Mobile finance’s position as a trail blazer in the sector”.

Orange Money Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, David S. Mansaray expressed gratitude for receiving the award and highlighted that “the company is committed to innovation and unmatched customer service and thanked his team and the partnerships that have contributed to the company’s success in reinforcing their vision to boost digital finance”.

He further commented on the importance of financial inclusion and how Orange money continues to empower individuals and businesses through accessible mobile financial services.

Orange money has proven to be a trusted player in guaranteeing reliable and secure access to your money anywhere, anytime, for everyone. With nearly 40 million customers across the African continent, Orange Money continues its commitment to ever more accessible and innovative mobile finance.

Orange Money SL remains at the forefront of mobile money inclusion, playing a pivotal role in enhancing seamless transactions between mobile wallets and banks. Through innovative financial solutions, the company continues to empower individuals and businesses, bridging the gap between traditional banking and digital finance.

Orange money Africa and middle east recently announced opening if its new headquarters in Abidjan, cote d’lvoire. An important milestone demonstrating the groups’ commitment to Africa and to facilitate innovative financial services for all and to contribute to the growth of African financial ecosystem.

A new stage is being prepared….one more step towards you, towards proximity, more impact, and more solutions adapted to your needs.




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QNet Empowers Women Through Financial Literacy, Business And Wellness


QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle-focused direct selling company, joins the United Nations and the world in celebrating International Women’s Day by reaffirming its commitment to empowering women in Ghana and across sub-Saharan Africa.

For years, QNET has supported women through initiatives like FinGreen, its financial literacy program designed to help women and young people take control of their financial future. By providing tailored education and training, FinGreen addresses key financial knowledge gaps, enabling women to make informed decisions. Alongside its direct selling business model and innovative products, QNET aligns with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: #AccelerateAction.

Empowering Women through FinGreen for Ripple Effects

Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, who is happiest when women get empowered, said: “Our FinGreen programme transforms women into financial champions, empowering them to become informed and confident leaders, a point of reference for families and communities, creating a ripple effect that is sustainable and widespread in their respective social circles. This is in consonance with a popular African saying that when you train and empower a woman, you empower a nation.”

Creating Opportunities for Women through QNET’s Business Model

He reaffirms: “We are accelerating action towards ensuring equal rights, equal opportunities and equal power for women. QNET’s business model ensures that women earn same commission from promoting the company’s wide range of health, wellness, lifestyle, personal care, education, holiday and technology products. The population of women on the African continent according to World Bank Open Data is estimated at 583.2 million, representing about 50.2% of the total population. Direct selling, therefore, offers a great opportunity for these women to thrive by being part of a global market that offers certified and exclusive products that can be sold to earn income and support families.”

Enhancing Quality of Wellbeing and Lifestyle through Innovative QNET Products

QNET, through its wide variety of health and wellness products, is enhancing the quality of life for women. These amazing products include the EDG3 Plus supplement for vitality, the Amezcua e-Guard X for energy balance, Chi-Pendant 4 that provides protection against radiation, Bio-Disc 3 that breaks down water chemicals for easy absorption, ProSpark Toothpaste, which combines effective oral hygiene with unique health benefits, Bernhard H. Mayer’s collection of watches and jewelleries and many more.

QNET’s commitment to women empowerment is not just for a day, it has been for the past 27 years and it is for a lifetime.

About QNET

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.  Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net

 




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