By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a Press Conference held on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education highlighted crucial updates on national initiatives designed to bolster peace, consumer protection and local manufacturing. Led by Minister Chernor Bah, the conference underscored the Government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans through strategic industry regulations and partnerships.
One of the key announcements came from the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Fatmata Kargbo, who revealed plans to commission Odhav Multi Industries (SL) Ltd., an iron rod manufacturing facility in Songo, by the end of the year. This project aligns with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s vision of reducing Sierra Leone’s dependence on imported iron rods while strengthening the country’s manufacturing sector.
To further safeguard consumer interests, she said the Ministry has intensified efforts to combat the importation of substandard iron rods. The Deputy Minister disclosed that the Ministry has successfully engaged importers, leading to the cessation of such imports. According to her, 10 shops found selling substandard iron rods have been shut down and stricter certification protocols for iron rod imports have been enforced. These measures, she said, are supported by comprehensive monitoring at Ports to ensure that only iron rods meeting the specified standards enter the market.
Jogor Bah, Deputy Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau, detailed the specifications for standard iron rods, ensuring consumers have accurate information:
– Quarter Rods: Length 40ft, Diameter 6mm, 377 pieces per ton.
– 1/2 Inch Iron Rods: Length 40ft, Diameter 12mm, 94 pieces per ton.
– 5/8 Inch Iron Rods: Length 40ft, Diameter 16mm, 53 pieces per ton.
The Deputy Executive Director also highlighted the Bureau’s plans to introduce a Consignment-Based Conformity Assessment Program by 2025, aimed at further reducing the prevalence of substandard goods in Sierra Leone. This initiative is expected to lower the rate of such products by 20%, with a long-term goal of reaching zero.
In his address, Lawrence Bassie, CEO of the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC), reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to safeguarding consumer rights. He encouraged citizens to report issues related to substandard goods or services using the Commission’s hotline (+23230080527) or email (nationalconsumerprotectioncom@gmail.com). The CEO assured the public that violators would face legal consequences under the Consumer Protection Act of 2020.
These developments mark significant progress in the Government’s drive to enhance industry standards, protect consumers and promote local manufacturing, positioning Sierra Leone on a stronger economic path.
