Koidu Town, Kono District—Stakeholders in Koidu Town, Kono District, have expressed their satisfaction with KoiduLimited, one of Sierra Leone’s leading mining companies, for its unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its efforts to complement the government’s development agenda. The company has significantly contributed to education, energy, employment, healthcare, and community development programs.
In a recent interview, a prominent district stakeholder, Mr. Tamba, praised Koidu Limited as a well-established entity dedicated to improving the welfare of its employees and the community. He highlighted the company’s strong relationship with the Government of Sierra Leone and its policies aimed at uplifting the lives of residents in the mining community. “KoiduLimited has transformed many lives, especially in Koidu City and beyond,” he stated.
Significant Contributions to Community Development
According to Mr. Tamba, Koidu Limited has undertaken numerous impactful projects, including constructing and renovating institutions like the Kono Blind School. The company has also provided scholarships to hundreds of university students and covers tuition fees for all Kono District students enrolled in technical institutions.
Furthermore, Koidu Limited has played a crucial role in enhancing the district’s electricity supply, paying an annual electricity bill of approximately $1,000,000 to the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). The company has also supported the construction of an ultra-modern maternity hospital and assisted the Koidu City Mayor’s office by supplying fuel for waste collection trucks.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Koidu Limited invested heavily in public health by building screening centres at all border entry points around Kono District, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Additionally, since the inception of the school bus system, the company has continuously supplied fuel for all three school buses serving the district.
Power Purchase Agreement Boosts Electricity Supply
Another resident, Mr Sahr Komba, emphasised the impact of the Power Purchase Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Koidu Limited, which has led to significant improvements in electricity supply. He acknowledged that while global economic challenges have affected industries worldwide, Koidu Limited remains committed to upholding labour laws and fostering a stable work environment for employees.
“Koidu Limited provides hundreds of jobs, directly supporting families across the district. Many Kono residents depend on the company for essential services and employment opportunities,” he urged the government to continue collaborating with the company to drive national development.
Employment and Regulatory Compliance
Speaking on the company’s role in job creation, Koidu City resident Madam Susan Tamba Sam acknowledged the company’s contributions to reducing unemployment. “KoiduLimited has provided jobs for our brothers, sisters, uncles, and fathers, thereby reducing the unemployment rate in Kono,” she said.
She also commended the company for its compliance with national regulations, including tax contributions to the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and adherence to labour laws enforced by the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT).
She urged stakeholders to support Koidu Limited’s continued efforts to drive regional development. “The company’s role in transforming Kono District is undeniable. I encourage the management to keep doing the right thing and remain committed to its corporate social responsibilities.”
Koidu Limited continues to demonstrate its dedication to sustainable development and remains a key player in enhancing the livelihoods of Kono District residents. As the company progresses, community stakeholders emphasise the importance of government and corporate partnerships in fostering long-term growth and stability in Sierra Leone.