By Mariama Iyatunde Mansare
Public Relations Officer (PRO), Sierra Leone Railway Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRRA)
The Sierra Leone Railway Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRRA), under the leadership of its Director General, Dr. Albert Ford, on Monday May 11, 2026 conducted an assessment and inspection visit to the Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) – Kingho Railway and Port facilities in Pepel as part of the Authority’s statutory mandate to regulate and monitor railway operations across the country.
The visit forms part of ongoing supervisory engagements aimed at evaluating compliance with operational standards, infrastructure commitments, and safety requirements within Sierra Leone’s railway sector.
Proceedings commenced with opening remarks from the Vice President of the Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) and representatives of the China Railway First Group (CRFG) in Pepel, Mr. Charli, who officially welcomed the Director General and his delegation while reaffirming the company’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the regulatory authority.
Addressing management and technical staff during the engagement, Dr. Albert Ford emphasized that the Sierra Leone Railway Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRRA) remains committed to ensuring effective regulation, monitoring, and oversight of all railway-related activities across Sierra Leone. He noted that the Authority’s primary responsibility extends beyond regulation to ensuring that concessionaires and operators fulfill obligations outlined in agreements signed with the Government of Sierra Leone.
Dr. Ford further referenced key provisions contained in the agreement signed between the Ministry and the Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG), particularly those relating to infrastructure development, capital investment, and railway rehabilitation targets expected to be achieved within the agreed implementation period leading up to 2027.
He stressed the importance of sustained investment in railway construction, modernization, and maintenance, noting that the long-term viability of Sierra Leone’s railway sector depends heavily on continuous infrastructural improvement and strict adherence to agreed standards.
During the technical session, Madam Mabinty, Safety Officer of the Kingho Group, delivered a detailed presentation on the company’s safety and hazard management systems. Her presentation highlighted safety mechanisms along the rail corridor, operational risk management procedures, and measures being implemented within railway facilities and the Pepel township to ensure both public and operational safety.
Representatives of the China Railway First Group (CRFG) also provided updates on locomotive rehabilitation works and ongoing railway improvement projects being undertaken since the company commenced operations in Sierra Leone.
Speaking further on Schedule 3 of the concession agreement, which addresses Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) obligations under the project, Dr. Albert Ford explained that the Ministry had mandated the Sierra Leone Railway Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRRA) to conduct an independent inspection and provide a comprehensive assessment report on the progress of work at the site.
While acknowledging that aspects of the project remain ongoing, the Director General commended the management and technical teams for the level of progress achieved thus far. He encouraged the company to sustain momentum and ensure that all outstanding commitments are delivered within the stipulated timeframe.
Dr. Albert Ford concluded by underscoring the importance of collective efforts in building a resilient, efficient, and sustainable railway system capable of contributing meaningfully to national development and expanding economic opportunities for the people of Sierra Leone.
