PORT LOKO – 6/12/2024. Leone Rock Metal Group presented a symbolic cheque of a whooping sum of Le 5,766,470,121 symbolizing the payment of Community Development fund, and Surface Rent to affected communities in ten (10) chiefdoms in Port Loko, Karene, Bombali and Tonkolili Districts during a mammoth meeting organized for that purpose at the Conference Hall in the Provincial Secretary’s office in Port Loko city. The amount also represents an increment of 5% to the total sum of Le 5,625,000,000 previously paid for the year 2024.

 

The ceremony symbolizes the company’s commitment to honoring the terms outlined in an agreement ratified by the Parliament of Sierra Leone in 2023 on one hand, and its dedication to fostering a positive relationship with the communities on the other.  The payment of the surface rent to landowners further reflects the company’s recognition of the pivotal role played by the communities in supporting its operations.

 

The occasion was attended by people from all walks of life, Chiefdom and Community Stakeholders, Honorable Members of Parliament, Government Ministers and other key government officials, and the main beneficiaries – Landowners.

 

During the colorful occasion, participants expressed gratitude and appreciation to Leone Rock Metal Group for their trustworthiness and policy of giving back to the communities from the proceeds realized from their operations. They commended the company for honoring their commitment to their Corporate Social Responsibility at all times – an action which elevated the company above all mining companies in Sierra Leone.

 

Senior management officials who represented the company included the Chief Technical Officer (CTO) – LRMG – Mr. Salim Sillah, the General Manager, KRP – Mr. Challie Chen, Manager, Community and Security Department – Mr. Mohamed Turay, and the Manager, Compliance Department – LRMG – Mr. Samuel Kamara. In their contribution, the managers assured the community stakeholders and landowners of the company’s continued support to their well-being, noting that they are a priority to the company. They highlighted the projects implemented by LRMG through CDAP and CSR programs in the operational chiefdoms.

 

The Minister of Transport and Aviation was the Keynote Speaker. He advised the beneficiaries to use the surface rent judiciously and for the benefit of their respective communities. He noted with dismay the deliberate attempts of certain communities to disrupt the operations of the company using civil disturbances, mainly unlawful strikes and demonstrations. At this juncture, the minister disclosed that the Port and Rail belongs to Government, and any attempt to obstruct their operations is tantamount to depriving the government, and by extension the nation, of the much-needed revenue. He therefore advised communities, including landowners to employ peaceful dialogue as a means of resolving company-related grievances.

 

The occasion was climaxed by the presentation of the Symbolic Cheque to Landowners and stakeholders.