The Sierra Leone Railway Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRRA), under the leadership of its Director General (DG), Dr. Albert Ford, on Monday 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 (VP) 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 and reaffirmed 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 in Sierra Leone. He noted that the Authority’s primary responsibility is not only to regulate the sector, but also to ensure that concessionaires and operators fulfill the obligations outlined in their agreements with the Government of Sierra Leone.
The Director General further referenced key provisions within 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 the railway sector depends on continued infrastructural improvement and adherence to agreed standards.
During the technical session, Madam Mabinty, Safety Officer (SO) of the Kingho Group, delivered a detailed presentation on the company’s safety and hazard management systems. The presentation highlighted safety mechanisms along the rail corridor, operational risk management procedures, and measures being implemented within the railway facilities and the Pepel township to ensure public and operational safety.
Representatives of the China Railway First Group (CRFG) also presented 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. 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 works 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 maintain momentum and ensure that all outstanding commitments are delivered within the stipulated timeframe.
Dr. 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 improving economic opportunities for the people of Sierra Leone.
Credit: Mariama Iyatunde Mansare, Public Relations SLRDRRA
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