Sierra Leone has taken a bold and promising step toward transforming its technical education landscape, as the first set of Sierra Leonean students undergo intensive training at the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy. The milestone highlights a growing commitment to equipping young people with practical, market-ready skills that translate directly into economic opportunity, with sustained backing from China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd.

The Academy, a collaborative initiative between China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd, Freetown Polytechnic and Zhengzhou Railway Technical College, was officially inaugurated on January 27, 2026. The high-profile ceremony brought together national and international stakeholders, including President Julius Maada Bio and the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, underscoring the strategic importance of global partnerships in strengthening the country's human capital development.

From the outset, the Academy was designed to bridge the long-standing gap between theoretical instruction and practical application; a challenge that has historically limited employment opportunities for many young Sierra Leoneans. Its first cohort of students is now benefiting from hands-on training programmes across a diverse range of disciplines, including driving, information technology, electrical operations and maintenance, automotive repair and video editing. Those courses are carefully tailored to meet the demands of today's job market while also encouraging entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

For many of the students, the experience has been transformative. Posseh Kamara, one of the pioneering trainees, described her journey as both challenging and rewarding. She recalled her initial hesitation when she first encountered a steering wheel, having never driven before. Through patient instruction and strict adherence to safety standards, she gradually built confidence while learning to operate a HOWO truck.

"What seemed impossible at first became achievable through consistent practice and support," she explained, expressing gratitude to her instructors for their guidance. She particularly praised the dedication of her tutors, noting that their encouragement played a crucial role in her progress and personal growth.

Another student, Yusuf Baimba Kamara, highlighted the Academy's multidisciplinary approach as one of its strongest advantages. Specializing in electrical studies, he found himself gaining additional exposure to fields such as IT, video editing and vehicle maintenance; skills he believes will significantly enhance his employability.

"The environment here made learning easy and engaging. It is not just about theory; we practiced everything we learned," he said. He emphasized that the hands-on experience, particularly in vehicle wiring and diagnostics, has prepared him to tackle real-world challenges with confidence.

Foday S. Kamara echoed similar sentiments, praising the Academy's structured and student-centered approach. According to him, the programme stands out for its emphasis on ensuring that learners fully understand concepts before advancing. That method, he noted, has helped him develop critical problem-solving skills and independence.

"The training has equipped me with the confidence to solve problems on my own," he stated. "Now, I feel ready to face real-life situations and build a better future."

Elizabeth J. Williams, who focused on computer hardware, also described the programme as empowering. She noted that the Academy's curriculum closely mirrors real workplace conditions, making it easier for students to transition into employment or even start their own businesses. Beyond her core area, she gained additional competencies in driving, electrical systems and automotive maintenance.

"Within a short time, I have seen tremendous improvement in my abilities," she said. "This programme does not just teach; it empowers you to apply knowledge independently."

The success of this first cohort underscores the Academy's role as a catalyst for change in Sierra Leone's education and employment sectors. By prioritizing practical skills and aligning training with industry needs, the initiative is helping to tackle youth unemployment while contributing to national development goals.

Stakeholders remain optimistic that the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy will continue to expand its reach and impact. Plans are already being discussed to broaden the range of programmes and accommodate more students, ensuring that a larger segment of the population benefits from this innovative model of technical education.

The partnership between Sierra Leonean institutions and Chinese counterparts is also expected to deepen, paving the way for further investments in skills development and infrastructure. This collaboration demonstrates how international cooperation can yield tangible benefits, particularly in sectors that directly influence economic growth and social stability.

As these pioneering students progress toward graduation and entry into the workforce, their achievements stand as a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through vision, collaboration and determination. The Academy is not just an educational institution; it is a symbol of opportunity, resilience and the promise of a brighter future for Sierra Leone's youth.

In redefining how technical education is delivered, the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy is setting a new standard; one where skills lead directly to livelihoods and learning becomes a gateway to lasting economic empowerment. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/from-classroom-to-career-excellence-skills-academy-transforms-youth-prospects/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening aviation safety and regulatory compliance following her participation in the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium 2026 held in Marrakech from April 14 to 16, 2026.

Speaking after the high-level global gathering, Madam Musayeroh Barrie disclosed that she engaged extensively with international aviation leaders on advancing implementation, enhancing collaboration and improving safety standards across the aviation industry. She described her discussions with the United Kingdom’s safety team as “productive,” noting that they form part of Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to exit the European Union aviation safety list.

The symposium, organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization, brought together over 1,450 participants from 101 countries, including regulators, policymakers and industry experts. The event focused on addressing key challenges in aviation safety, security, sustainability and capacity development, all aligned with ICAO’s long-term strategic vision for 2050.

Central to the discussions was the global ambition to achieve zero fatalities and net-zero carbon emissions in aviation, alongside the implementation of the “No Country Left Behind” initiative aimed at ensuring that all states meet international aviation standards.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s participation highlighted Sierra Leone’s renewed drive to align its aviation sector with global best practices. Her engagements at the symposium come at a critical time as the country accelerates reforms to address regulatory gaps that have contributed to its continued presence on the EU Air Safety List since 2008.

Under her leadership, the SLCAA has embarked on a comprehensive reform programme focused on strengthening oversight mechanisms, improving inspector training and ensuring compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). These measures are part of a structured roadmap developed in collaboration with international partners to enhance aviation safety and restore global confidence.

Industry observers note that Sierra Leone’s inclusion on the EU safety list is primarily linked to regulatory oversight challenges rather than operational deficiencies, making institutional strengthening a key priority. Recent high-level engagements between the SLCAA and international safety bodies have established clear benchmarks and timelines aimed at resolving those issues.

The Marrakech symposium also served as a platform for forging strategic partnerships to support aviation development worldwide. Several countries, including the United Kingdom, pledged voluntary contributions to support capacity-building initiatives in Africa, particularly in the areas of safety, security and environmental sustainability.

Additionally, global industry leaders reinforced their commitment to supporting aviation capacity development through technical expertise, training programmes and investment in safety systems. Discussions emphasized the importance of collaboration between Governments, regulators and industry stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of international standards.

A key outcome of the symposium was the adoption of the Marrakech Call to Action, endorsed by Ministers from 22 countries, which reaffirmed commitments to strengthening governance, mobilizing financing for aviation growth and enhancing institutional capacity across the sector.

ICAO Council President, Toshiyuki Onuma, underscored the importance of universal implementation of aviation standards, while ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar stressed that translating commitments into measurable outcomes remains the true test of global cooperation.

For Sierra Leone, the outcomes of the symposium represent a significant opportunity to accelerate ongoing reforms and strengthen its aviation sector. While the country’s airlines continue to operate through alternative certifications, authorities view removal from the EU safety list as a critical milestone that will unlock investment, boost tourism and enhance international connectivity.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s growing engagement on the global stage reflects increasing recognition of her leadership in aviation governance. Her participation in the Marrakech symposium signals Sierra Leone’s commitment to transparency, collaboration and adherence to international standards.

The symposium concluded with a strong call for sustained global cooperation to ensure that all countries benefit from the growth of the aviation sector. With renewed partnerships and clear implementation strategies emerging from Marrakech, Sierra Leone’s aviation sector is poised to make steady progress toward enhanced safety, credibility, and long-term development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-advances-aviation-safety-agenda-at-icao-2026-global-symposium-in-marrakech/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Diplomatic relations between Sierra Leone and Mexico received a notable boost following the formal appointment of Daklala M. Antar as Honorary Consul of Mexico in Sierra Leone. The appointment, confirmed on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, signals a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation between the two nations, particularly in areas of trade, diplomacy and cultural exchange.

The development coincided with an official ceremony at State House in Freetown, where the Mexican Ambassador, Norma Ang Sanchez, presented her letters of credence to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. During the ceremony, the Ambassador reaffirmed Mexico’s dedication to strengthening South-South cooperation and enhancing its bilateral engagement with Sierra Leone.

As part of the diplomatic proceedings, Ambassador Norma Ang Sanchez formally introduced Daklala M Antar to President Bio as Mexico’s Honorary Consul. The introduction underscored Daklala M Antar’s role as a key liaison in advancing diplomatic, economic and social relations between the United Mexican States and Sierra Leone.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, while receiving the credentials of the newly accredited envoy, reiterated Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to fostering strong diplomatic and economic partnerships with international allies. He emphasized that such engagements are vital to achieving national development goals and promoting shared prosperity.

In his remarks, President Bio warmly welcomed the Ambassador and acknowledged the importance of Mexico as a strategic partner. He noted that strengthening bilateral ties would open new avenues for collaboration in trade, investment, education and cultural exchange, ultimately benefiting both nations.

The ceremony also highlighted Sierra Leone’s broader foreign policy agenda, which prioritizes constructive engagement with global partners to support sustainable development. The presentation of credentials marked another milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to expand its diplomatic footprint and reinforce its presence on the international stage.

The Ambassador of Mexico was formally presented to the President by Timothy Musa Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, further emphasizing the significance of the occasion within Sierra Leone’s diplomatic calendar.

Following his appointment, Daklala M Antar called on all Mexican nationals residing in Sierra Leone to register with the Honorary Consulate. He stressed that the initiative aims to establish a comprehensive database that will enhance communication, improve consular support services and ensure the welfare of Mexican citizens living in the country.

Daklala M Antar reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, pledging to work closely with both Governments to promote mutual interests. He highlighted the importance of fostering people-to-people connections, encouraging trade partnerships, agriculture and facilitating cultural exchanges as part of his mandate.

Observers note that the appointment of an Honorary Consul is a strategic move that reflects Mexico’s growing interest in expanding its diplomatic and economic engagement in West Africa. For Sierra Leone, the development represents an opportunity to diversify its international partnerships and attract new investments.

The ceremony concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing optimism about the future of Sierra Leone-Mexico relations. The appointment of Daklala M Antar is widely seen as a step forward in strengthening cooperation, enhancing diplomatic ties and promoting sustainable development between the two nations. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/daklala-m-antar-appointed-mexicos-honorary-consul-in-sierra-leone-vows-stronger-bilateral-engagement/

Orange Middle East and Africa has officially launched its ambitious new strategic plan, “Trust the Future,” positioning the telecommunications giant to deepen its impact across the region by accelerating digital inclusion, financial access and sustainable development.

Unveiled as a roadmap for the 2026–2030 period, the strategy reflects Orange’s commitment to building long-term trust with customers, partners and Governments, while expanding reliable, secure and inclusive digital services to millions of users across Africa and the Middle East. The announcement comes at a time when the region is experiencing rapid population growth and a surge in digital adoption, creating new opportunities for innovation and economic transformation.

Operating in more than 15 countries and serving over 150 million customers, Orange Middle East and Africa remains a critical growth engine for the Group, generating approximately €8 billion in revenue in 2025. With mobile usage continuing to expand, the company sees its new strategy as a decisive step toward consolidating its leadership in one of the world’s most dynamic digital markets.

At the heart of the “Trust the Future” plan are three strategic ambitions designed to drive sustainable growth and long-term value. The first pillar, customer intimacy, focuses on strengthening relationships with users by delivering services that are dependable, secure and tailored to evolving digital needs. Through that approach, the company aims to enhance customer loyalty and differentiate its brand in increasingly competitive markets.

The second pillar, innovative growth, targets expansion across both consumer and enterprise segments. That includes scaling connectivity through widespread 4G and 5G deployment, investing in infrastructure and developing robust digital ecosystems. Central to such an ambition is the continued growth of Orange Money, which has already reached approximately 47 million active users. The platform has become a cornerstone of financial inclusion, enabling millions of people and small businesses to access essential financial services without relying on traditional banking systems.

Complementing this is Max it, the company’s all-in-one digital application that integrates telecom services, payments and everyday tools. With over 20 million active users across 16 countries, the app is simplifying digital access and strengthening Orange’s position within the rapidly expanding digital economy.

The third pillar, excellence at scale, underscores the company’s focus on operational efficiency and sustainability. Orange continues to invest heavily in infrastructure, committing more than €1 billion annually to network expansion, data centres and international connectivity. Those investments have enabled extensive 4G coverage across all its markets, with nearly 100 million users now connected, while 5G services are already operational in seven African countries and expanding further.

Large-scale backbone projects, including cross-border fibre networks spanning thousands of kilometres, are also enhancing regional connectivity and resilience, supporting Governments, businesses and individuals with faster and more affordable digital access.

Beyond technology, the “Trust the Future” strategy places strong emphasis on human development. Since 2019, Orange has trained approximately 1.4 million young people through its network of Orange Digital Centers and partnerships with universities across the region. Those initiatives focus on equipping youth with digital skills, fostering entrepreneurship and supporting innovation, with more than 450 startups already benefiting from the programmes.

With Africa and the Middle East home to one of the youngest populations globally, Orange aims to expand its impact by supporting over three million young people by the end of the decade, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in a digital-first economy.

Sustainability also features prominently in the strategy. Through its Orange Energies initiative, the company is delivering clean, mobile-enabled energy solutions to underserved communities. Currently, over 30 percent of its network sites are powered by solar energy, a figure expected to rise steadily as Orange strengthens its environmental commitments.

In countries such as Morocco, where the company has operated for more than two decades and serves nearly 20 million customers, continued investments are reinforcing its position as a strategic digital hub. At the same time, Orange’s presence in markets like Sierra Leone is contributing to national development through expanded connectivity, financial inclusion and youth empowerment initiatives.

With the launch of “Trust the Future,” Orange Middle East and Africa is not only advancing its business objectives but also reinforcing its role as a long-term partner in the region’s socio-economic transformation. The strategy signals a forward-looking approach where trust, innovation and inclusivity are central to shaping a more connected and resilient future.

For millions of users across the region, the impact of the vision will be reflected in everyday experiences, seamless connectivity, accessible financial services and sustainable energy solutions, driving meaningful progress in the digital age.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-middle-east-and-africa-unveils-bold-trust-the-future-plan-for-2026-2030-expansion/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

During a press conference held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Choithram Memorial Hospital, the hospital unveiled its 2026 Free Cataract Surgery Outreach Programme, aimed at providing free eye screenings and cataract surgeries to eligible patients across Sierra Leone as part of national efforts to eliminate preventable blindness. The programme, which commenced on April 10, 2026, is scheduled to run until June 8, 2026, at the hospital’s Hill Station facility in Freetown.

The outreach is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, in association with Choithram Netralaya, the Noor Dubai Foundation a member of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and the Choithram International Foundation.

The well-attended event brought together key stakeholders in the health sector, including Head of the Choithrams Group, Harish Agnani; Medical Superintendent, Dr. George; Deputy Chief Medical Officer (Clinical) at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Mustapha Kabba; Deputy Programme Manager of the National Eye Health Programme, Sheku A. Koroma; as well as cataract surgeon Dr. Abhishek Patel and eye surgeons Dr. Meghna Shrishrimal and Dr. Akash Kathole, all from Choithram Netralaya in India, in addition to 3 Operation Theatre Staff also from India to support the camp alongside nurses from the hospital’s Eye Unit and members of the media.

Addressing the gathering, Harish Agnani officially announced the commencement of the 2026 Cataract Surgery Outreach Programme, a large-scale humanitarian initiative aimed at providing free eye care services to at least 3,000 people across the country. He disclosed that the programme, which began on April 14, will run for approximately eight weeks, with a team of specialist doctors from India expected to remain in Sierra Leone until June 8, 2026.

Emphasizing the inclusivity of the initiative, Harish Agnani reiterated that the outreach is entirely free for all beneficiaries. He revealed that within the first week, about 4,000 patients had already been screened, with nearly 200 successful surgeries completed, while the medical team continues to perform an average of 40 surgeries daily. By the end of the programme, the team is targeting between 1,500 and 1,800 cataract operations.

He described cataract surgery as life-changing, particularly for individuals who have lost their sight and independence, noting that restoring vision enables people to return to productive lives and regain their dignity. Reflecting on the success of the 2025 outreach, Harish Agnani stated that over 8,000 patients were screened nationwide, resulting in 1,542 successful surgeries with positive outcomes.

According to him, the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Choithram Netralaya in India, the Noor Dubai Foundation, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and the Choithram International Foundation. Harish Agnani explained that screening is not limited to Freetown, as district hospitals across the country are actively involved in identifying patients, who are then transported to the capital for surgery. Beneficiaries are provided with transportation, accommodation and feeding, all fully funded by Choithram and its partners.

In addition to delivering critical services, the programme also focuses on capacity building. Harish Agnani disclosed that seven nurses from Choithram Memorial Hospital were sent to India in 2025 for specialized training at Choithram Netralaya, urging them to cascade the knowledge acquired to strengthen local expertise in eye care.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mustapha Kabba, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer (Clinical) at the Ministry of Health, commended the outreach programme as a life-changing intervention that is significantly improving access to quality eye care services in Sierra Leone. He praised the visiting medical team for their dedication and described their continued engagement as a reflection of strong international collaboration.

Dr. Mustapha Kabba highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening the healthcare system, noting that such collaborations are essential in addressing gaps in service delivery. He further revealed that the thousands of free surgeries conducted under similar initiatives represent a substantial financial investment in the country’s health sector, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

He underscored the broader impact of the programme, explaining that patients are screened in district hospitals, transported to Freetown, treated and monitored, all at no cost. He also pointed to ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health to strengthen specialist training locally, including the development of ophthalmology programmes under the national postgraduate medical framework.

Dr. Mustapha Kabba acknowledged improvements in medical infrastructure nationwide but stressed the need to build public confidence in local healthcare services, encouraging citizens to utilize available facilities rather than seeking treatment abroad. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining quality standards and supporting initiatives that expand access to healthcare.

Also speaking, Sheku A. Koroma emphasized the critical role of the National Eye Health Programme in supporting the outreach, particularly in conducting initial screenings in the provinces and ensuring follow-up care for patients after surgery. He noted that affordability and fear of surgical outcomes have long been barriers to eye care, but the success of previous outreach programmes has helped build trust and increase participation.

Sheku A. Koroma assured that all procedures carried out under the programme meet international standards, with surgeons utilizing the Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery technique, known globally for its safety and effectiveness. He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to take advantage of the opportunity, describing the outreach as a significant step toward improving eye health outcomes nationwide.

The Press Conference concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to sustain the initiative and expand access to quality healthcare services, as the programme continues to restore sight and offer renewed hope to thousands across Sierra Leone.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/choithram-rolls-out-2026-free-cataract-outreach-targeting-3000-beneficiaries-nationwide/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Government of Sierra Leone has approved a strategic partnership between Africell Sierra Leone and Sierratel aimed at reviving and modernizing the country’s national telecommunications provider through a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) model.

The announcement was made during a weekly press briefing hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education at the Mattai Conference Centre in Freetown on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Chairing the session, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, stated that the main purpose of the briefing was to deliberate on a major development in the country’s telecommunications landscape.

He disclosed that to unveil the transition, the panel included the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Abdul Rahman Swaray and the Acting Managing Director of Sierratel, Mr. Matturi.

Providing details of the agreement, the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, confirmed that Cabinet had endorsed Africell as the strategic investment partner for Sierratel’s relaunch under the MVNO framework. She explained that the model would enable Sierratel to resume operations without the heavy financial burden of building and maintaining its own telecommunications infrastructure.

According to the Minister, Sierratel will leverage Africell’s existing network infrastructure to deliver voice, data and other digital services nationwide while maintaining its identity as a consumer-facing brand. Africell, on the other hand, will manage the underlying infrastructure, ensuring operational efficiency and service delivery.

“This partnership represents a practical and sustainable approach to restoring Sierratel,” she stated, emphasizing that the model allows for immediate service rollout, reduced operational costs and improved competitiveness within the sector.

According to the Minister, under the agreement, Sierratel will remain 100 percent owned by the Government of Sierra Leone, while both entities will operate under a revenue-sharing arrangement and maintain distinct brand identities. Officials stressed that the initiative does not involve direct Government funding but is structured to generate revenue from the onset while preserving national ownership.

As part of the initial phase, Africell is expected to inject approximately $2 million to address outstanding staff liabilities, including salary arrears and benefits. That intervention follows concerns raised earlier this year by Sierratel employees over unpaid salaries amounting to Le326 million, alongside unresolved entitlements. Total staff-related obligations are estimated at about $6.3 million.

Minister Salima Monorma Bah noted that the Government inherited longstanding challenges at Sierratel, including deteriorating infrastructure, unresolved staff issues and a significant loss of market share. She revealed that previous attempts to privatize the company failed due to the high capital investment required to rehabilitate infrastructure and settle liabilities in a competitive market.

Speaking at the briefing, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Abdul Rahman Swaray, highlighted that the new operational model is expected to transition Sierratel from sustained financial losses to immediate revenue generation once services commence. He indicated that rollout under the MVNO structure is expected within days.

He further explained that the arrangement allows the Government to retain ownership while leveraging private sector expertise to manage operations and resolve long-standing obligations, particularly staff welfare concerns. He also pointed out that Sierratel had been operating on outdated CDMA technology, limiting its ability to compete effectively in the modern telecommunications environment.

Officials emphasized that the agreement is anchored on key principles, including clear brand separation, affordability through regulatory pricing structures and the introduction of differentiated services to enhance market competition. The partnership is expected to facilitate faster service rollout, reduce operational costs, improve service quality and expand access to affordable telecommunications services nationwide.

Industry observers have described the move as a pragmatic solution to longstanding inefficiencies within the state-owned operator. The MVNO model, they note, significantly reduces capital expenditure while accelerating market re-entry, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and competitive pricing.

Authorities also believe that leveraging Sierratel’s established brand recognition alongside Africell’s modern network capabilities will stabilize operations, restore consumer confidence and reposition the company as a viable competitor in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector.

Government officials expressed optimism that the initiative will not only restore Sierratel’s relevance but also contribute significantly to the country’s broader digital transformation agenda. If successfully implemented, the partnership is expected to mark a turning point in the revival of one of Sierra Leone’s most historic public enterprises, reinforcing efforts to strengthen digital connectivity and support economic growth through technology. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/sierratel-set-for-comeback-as-government-adopts-mvno-model-with-africell/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has commended the Sethi Group of Companies for its expanding industrial footprint across West Africa, highlighting its growing investments in both Liberia and Sierra Leone as a major boost to regional economic transformation and job creation.

Speaking on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Executive Mansion in Monrovia during the ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremony of the Phase II Steel Plant, President Boakai described the company’s operations as a model of impactful private sector investment. The event, which included a tour of the company’s processing facilities, underscored Liberia’s ambition to strengthen its industrial base while fostering cross-border economic cooperation.

“This is not just about investment; it is about improving people’s lives, equipping them with skills, building their confidence, and strengthening the economy,” President Boakai stated, emphasizing that the initiative represents far more than profit-driven enterprise.

The ceremony also spotlighted the company’s regional expansion strategy, with Managing Director Jay Sethi revealing that a state-of-the-art steel plant has been installed in Sierra Leone and is expected to be officially launched in the coming months. The development is anticipated to significantly enhance Sierra Leone’s manufacturing capacity, reduce reliance on imports, and create new employment opportunities within the country’s industrial sector.

Describing Liberia as “home,” Mr. Sethi noted that his family has lived in the country for over five decades, reinforcing the company’s long-standing commitment to national development. He explained that the Sethi Group has evolved from a trading enterprise into a major manufacturing player, contributing meaningfully to Liberia’s economic diversification.

According to him, the company currently employs more than 2,500 people directly, while generating over 500 indirect jobs through the steel scrap value chain—supporting both economic activity and environmental sustainability. With the Phase II expansion underway, direct employment is projected to exceed 4,000 jobs within the next two years, alongside continued investments in corporate social responsibility initiatives.

President Boakai, visibly impressed by the scale of operations, assured the company of his administration’s support, stressing that businesses operating within the legal framework and contributing to national growth would continue to receive government backing.

“From what I see here—the cement business and other activities—this means jobs and income for our people,” he said, noting that the company’s impact extends beyond its immediate workforce to include distributors and related enterprises.

He further urged workers and citizens to take ownership of such investments, cautioning against practices that undermine economic progress. “The stronger this investment becomes, the better it will be for you, your children, and the future of this country,” he added.

Also addressing the gathering, Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence called for the decentralization of industrial operations to other parts of Liberia, particularly in areas such as waste management, to improve sanitation and support sustainable urban development.

Meanwhile, Manoj Bihari Verma, India’s Ambassador to Liberia, praised the Liberian Government for creating an enabling environment for private sector growth. He highlighted the growing role of Indian businesses in Liberia’s economy and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through trade, investment, and capacity building.

Ambassador Verma also commended the Sethi Group for its sustained contribution to Liberia’s development, noting that such investments are instrumental in driving inclusive growth across the region.

The dual expansion in Liberia and Sierra Leone signals a new phase of industrial cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, positioning the Mano River region as an emerging hub for steel production and manufacturing. Analysts believe that with the upcoming launch of the Sierra Leone plant and the expansion in Liberia, the Sethi Group is set to play a pivotal role in reshaping the sub-region’s industrial landscape.

The event underscored the growing role of private sector investment in Liberia and Sierra Leone development agenda, with stakeholders highlighting the importance of partnerships that drive inclusive growth, job creation and sustainable economic progress.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-boakai-applauds-industrial-investment-sethi-group-expands-regional-footprint-with-new-steel-plant-in-sierra-leone-and-phase-ii-launch-in-liberia/