Following the export preparedness of the Sierra Tropical Limited (STL) in pineapple products, the Sierra Leone Investment and Export Promotion Agency (SLIEPA) has in the week of 9th June, 2022 led Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to a site visit at the pineapple processing factory in Sumbuya, Lugbu Chiefdom, Bo District.

This is according to a statement from SLIEPA: Directorate of Marketing and Communications.

According to SLIEPA, the purpose of the visit was to have a first-hand knowledge on the progress of the factory as SLIEPA has been facilitating the Company’s operation since its inception.

The Managing Director of STL, Mr. Alex Rivera, recognised SLIEPA’s continued support to their investment since the starting of its operation.

He explained the safety assurance of their employees, saying that, they currently have 1,400 workers with the potential to increase by the start of production.

He stated that, “The company has helped changed the standard of living of the people in Lugbu Chiefdom and its environs thus, the completion of the processing factory will create more positive impact in the community and the country.”

He further stated that, among other Cooperate Social Responsibilities (CSR) undertaking by the Company, they are committed to providing safe drinking water for the community and to supporting Health, education and Agriculture.

Mr. Sheku Lexmond Koroma, the Chief Executive Officer of SLIEPA, appreciated STL for their tremendous investment in the Country, saying that the construction of the factory is a welcoming development to the Government of Sierra Leone and that the President, Rtd Brigadier Dr. Julius Maada Bio, desires genuine investors such as STL to help increase the Country’s export capacity.

The CEO guaranteed his Agency’s continuous support to STL as he said, ‘‘the level of investment done here is impressive and STL deserves our continuous support to succeed.’’ He was optimistic that the completion of the pineapple processing factory will come with more job opportunities for the community people and compatriots from other arears across the Country.

The Company Secretary of STL, Centus Macauley Esq, also applauded SLIEPA for their unflinching support towards the company. He noted that, they will be always looking forward for such a continued working relationship with the agency.

Other MDAs that were in the visiting team included; the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS)