By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
Bluemoon Ice Cream (AP Business Ventures) has constructed approximately a 1.2-kilometre road known as Sunday Street and installed 15 solar-powered street lights in the Pamoronko Community, Calaba Town, Eastern Freetown, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility commitment.
The project was officially unveiled on Saturday, 20 December 2025, at the company’s premises in Pamoronko, where its manufacturing facility is located. The unveiling attracted community elders, youth leaders, traditional authorities, and local government representatives.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the Manager of Bluemoon Ice Cream, Kumar Yogesh, said the intervention was aimed at ensuring that the company’s operations bring direct and visible benefits to the host community. He stated that development should be mutually beneficial, noting that when a company grows, the surrounding community should also experience improvements in infrastructure, economic activity, and employment opportunities.
Kumar Yogesh acknowledged that the construction of the factory had caused temporary inconvenience to residents but commended the community for its patience and cooperation. He explained that the construction of Sunday Street and the installation of solar street lights formed part of the first phase of the company’s community support programme, which was developed in consultation with the local councillor and community leadership. He added that further initiatives would follow as the company expands, with continued dialogue to address community priorities.
The Chief of the Pamoronko Community, Ya Alimamy Sheriff Sesay, said Bluemoon Ice Cream had pledged to construct a proper road and provide street lighting before commencing full factory operations. He confirmed that the company had fulfilled this commitment by constructing Sunday Street and installing solar lights, describing the project as a meaningful contribution to the safety and development of the area.
He praised the company for honouring its promises and described Bluemoon Ice Cream as a responsible corporate partner. The chief added that the community would continue to engage constructively with the company to ensure sustained development.
Councillor Umaru Bangura of Ward 402 said the arrival of AP Business Ventures had brought significant development relief to the ward. He explained that extensive consultations involving youth, elders, and other stakeholders identified road access, drainage, and street lighting as critical needs.
According to him, the company undertook to construct the road, address persistent drainage problems that had caused flooding, and improve night-time safety through solar lighting. He disclosed that engineers were engaged to carry out the concrete works to ensure proper water flow along the street.
Councillor Umaru Bangura further stated that Bluemoon Ice Cream had made a financial contribution to support a local school and that compensation was provided to households affected by the company’s construction works through the community chief. He said the company’s management maintained regular engagement with residents to monitor progress and respond to concerns, with plans to extend support to neighbouring communities where possible.
He thanked the company for its responsiveness and called on residents to cooperate fully to ensure the sustainability of the projects, noting that the construction of Sunday Street and the installation of solar lights would enhance mobility, safety, and overall living conditions in the Pamoronko Community.
The completion of Sunday Street and the installation of 15 solar-powered street lights stand as a clear demonstration of Bluemoon Ice Cream’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. By investing in critical infrastructure that improves safety, accessibility, and quality of life for its host community, the company has set a positive example of how private sector operations can contribute meaningfully to local development.
