Tonkolili, April 15, 2025 — Leone Rock Metal Group has officially completed Phase 1 of its 30 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) Magnetite Processing Plant and paid Le62,214,818 ( US$6.2 million) Community Development Agreement (CDA) Fund to Simiria, Dansogoia, and Sambaia chiefdoms in Tonkolili District.
The dual event, held in Tonkolili, brought together key national and international stakeholders, including President Julius Maada Bio, Chinese Ambassador Wang Qing, government ministers, Members of Parliament, paramount chiefs, and community representatives.
President Bio, who symbolically handed over a dummy check to beneficiaries, emphasized the growing benefits of mining operations for local communities. He noted that when Leone Rock began operations in 2021, raw ore exports were the norm, but significant transformation has occurred with the commissioning of beneficiation plants.
“Today, in addition to handing over a dummy check, we are commissioning a 10-million-tonnes-per-annum processing plant designed to produce over 65% grade concentrate,” the President announced, stressing that higher-grade production would generate more royalties and larger CDA payments for communities.
Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, praised President Bio’s leadership for making Sierra Leone’s mining sector more inclusive and accountable. “Under President Bio, progressive reforms have ensured communities benefit directly from the wealth beneath their feet,” he said, noting that the increase of the CDA fund to 1% of mining revenue is setting new standards for Africa.
Leone Rock CEO Gilbert Zhao described the commissioning of the new plant as a “national milestone,” symbolizing Sierra Leone’s readiness to transition from raw exports to value-added production. He highlighted that Leone Rock now employs over 9,200 workers, with more than 90% being Sierra Leoneans. The company is committed to advancing its local content policy and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Community leaders also expressed their support. Paramount Chief Bockarie Yelen Koroma III praised the government’s efforts, stating that mining communities now enjoy improved infrastructure, including schools, health centers, and roads funded through the CDA.
Hon. Emerson Lamina, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources, stressed the need for continuous oversight to ensure transparency in CDA fund management. “The CDA is not just a payment; it is a lifeline for communities. We must ensure that every Leone is spent for the people’s benefit,” he said.
The event also reinforced Sierra Leone’s partnership with China, with Ambassador Wang Qing acknowledging the importance of international cooperation in the country’s resource-driven development.
Leone Rock has further demonstrated its corporate social responsibility by sponsoring Sierra Leone’s largest football tournament, awarding scholarships, building health centers, empowering women, and promoting local entrepreneurship.
Minister Mattai urged all stakeholders—government, companies, chiefs, and citizens—to collaborate for sustainable mining practices and community development.
With Phase 1 of the 30 MTPA processing plant completed, attention now turns to Phase 2, which promises more jobs, infrastructure, and sustainable growth for Sierra Leone’s mining sector.