Building Material Shops Shutdown for Selling Substandard Iron Rods

The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Kadiatu Kargbo, on Tuesday 20th August 2024 at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education weekly press conference held at the Ministry of foreign affairs, George Street, Freetown revealed the closure of shops involved in the sale of substandard iron rods in Freetown.

The minister action is to uphold safety of lives and address the recent growing collapse of building, construction standards and ensure sanity in the country.

According to Kargbo, investigation conducted revealed that several iron ores importers had failed to comply with national safety regulations and quality standards, which prompt the Ministry to engaged all iron rod importers for a review of their practices and ensure they meet the required specifications.

Kargbo further emphasized that public safety is the Ministry’s top priority, and they will not tolerate the sale of products that endanger citizen’s lives.

She assured the Ministry’s continue effort and crackdown on those shops, which she said is a step toward ensuring that all imported construction materials adhere to the highest standards.

She further revealed that the locked shops will remain closed until they rectify their practices and provide proof of compliance with industry regulations. The move has garnered support from various stakeholders in the construction industry who advocate for stricter enforcement of quality controls.

She continued that, her ministry is urging consumers to remain vigilant and report any shops suspected of selling substandard materials.

This action has showed that the government remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of the construction sector and preventing further incidents related to poor- quality materials.

This latest announcement is part of ongoing efforts by the government to enhance the regulatory framework governing construction materials and ensure a safer environment for all citizens.