The Parliament of Sierra Leone has on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, debated and unanimously ratified a major trade agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and JOLAKS Manufacturing Company Limited, a move that is expected to boost business opportunities and contribute to the country’s economic development.

The Minister of Trade, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, presented the agreements to Parliament, describing them as a critical step forward for Sierra Leone’s economy. He noted that JOLAKS, established in 2012 to produce vegetable oil locally, would now diversify its production under the new agreement.

The company, which has already created over 700 jobs in the past years, will receive a substantial investment of approximately $45 million. The Minister assured Parliament that JOLAKS had fulfilled all the regulatory requirements necessary to operate in the country.

“This project represents a tremendous opportunity for job creation and economic growth,” Minister Sesay remarked. “The agreement signifies a major investment in Sierra Leone’s future, with more jobs expected to be created across the country.”

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Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay, a Member of Parliament, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the agreement in expanding employment opportunities. She highlighted that JOLAKS currently operates at a capacity of 3,000 metric tons per day.

“This agreement is timely, as it aligns with efforts to strengthen our national economy,” she said. However, she also called for strong parliamentary oversight and urged that all companies adhere to the requirement for 30 percent female representation in their workforce. Additionally, she encouraged JOLAKS to engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to benefit local communities.

Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina, Deputy Leader of Government Business II, also spoke in favor of the agreement, citing the 1991 Constitution’s stipulation that Parliament must ratify all such agreements. He noted that Clause 4.2 of the deal, which mandates corporate social responsibility, was one of the most significant aspects of the arrangement.

“This agreement is a step toward ensuring that companies contribute positively to the development of our society,” he said. He further commended the government of President Julius Maada Bio for creating an enabling environment for business growth.

Hon. Unpha Koroma, representing the Western Area, raised concerns about the company’s engagement with local communities, urging that JOLAKS improve its relationship with stakeholders.

“The company must collaborate more effectively with both residents and Members of Parliament to ensure better service delivery,” he said. He also underscored the importance of training and improving the welfare of JOLAKS’ staff.

From the opposition bench, Hon. Abdul Kargbo also supported the agreement, highlighting the potential benefits it would bring to Sierra Leone, especially in terms of youth employment.

“This agreement will help address some of the unemployment challenges faced by our young people,” he remarked. However, he also stressed the need for thorough compliance with the terms of the agreement.

The Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, concluded the debate by reaffirming the agreement’s significance in providing meaningful job opportunities for Sierra Leone’s youth.

He noted that $30 million would be invested over several years and emphasized the importance of ensuring that the agreement’s provisions are implemented effectively. He further urged the Minister of Trade to ensure the protection of infant industries within the country.

In response to concerns raised by MPs, the Minister of Trade assured Parliament that the government would address key issues related to the environment, labor standards, and other areas of national concern.

In addition to the JOLAKS agreement, Parliament also approved a series of supplementary acts related to the liberalization of air transport and market access within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). These agreements aim to harmonize aviation policies, including air carrier liability, tariffs, and passenger compensation, among other regulations.

The passage of these agreements represents a major step in expanding Sierra Leone’s business landscape and strengthening its position within the regional economy. With the ratification of the JOLAKS agreement and the new aviation policies, the government is setting the stage for increased investment, job creation, and economic diversification.