Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG), a prominent mining company in Sierra Leone, has launched a Skills Training Center and Mentorship Program at its site in Ferengbeya, Tonkolili district.
The center aims to equip employees with essential skills, enabling them to mentor others effectively while fostering cooperation, respect, and a dedication to excellence. One of LRMG’s notable achievements is its role as a leading employer in Sierra Leone, with a workforce of 5000+ employees. Instead of seeking expertise from abroad, LRMG takes a responsible stance by prioritizing the training of national staff, equipping them with the necessary skills for career progression and ultimately safeguarding jobs for Sierra Leoneans.
The opening ceremony, held on December 8, 2023, was attended by esteemed guests, including LRMG’s Human Resource Manager -Mohamed Daffae, the General Manager Mr. Gou, Minister of Labour Employment and Social Security Mohamed Rahman Swaray, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Umaru Napoleon Koroma, other government and community stakeholders, and Paramount Chiefs of three chiefdoms in Tonkolili.
Minister of Labour Employment and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, commended LRMG for its proactive approach, emphasizing that LRMG consistently undertakes initiatives even before being prompted to do so. The company’s dedication to investing in human capital development showcases its commitment to creating job opportunities and supporting President’s vision of generating employment for 500, 000 individuals in his five big game changer agenda within the next five years. Moreover, Minister Swaray highlighted LRMG’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, noting that the company has already equipped its 5000+ employees with the required skills for promotion. By prioritizing the training of national staff, LRMG is actively contributing to job creation and retention for Sierra Leoneans.
Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, praised LRMG’s timely initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the local content policy. He commended the company’s commitment to sustainable national development and expressed his admiration for LRMG’s dedication to capacity building.
Paramount Chief representative of three chiefdoms in Tonkolili, hailed LRMG’s unique approach to rapid development. He expressed gratitude to the government for creating an enabling environment and chose LRMG as a partner in the endeavor. Jalloh described the skills training and mentorship program as a commendable venture that will contribute to the growth and development of the region.
LRMG’s General Manager, Mr. Gou, recognized the significance of skills development within the company and the broader context of promoting sustainable development in Sierra Leone. Acknowledging the rapidly evolving Iron Ore Tonkolili project requirements and LRMG’s emerging technological approaches, he emphasized the value of empowering employees with the necessary skills to stay ahead.
Daffae, Human Resource consultant of LRMG, emphasized the center’s purpose of providing specialized skills guided by LRMG’s corporate values of respect, cooperation, and sharing. The primary objective is not only to cater to the 2000-plus workforce at the Tonkolili mining site but also to extend support to the region’s young population. The program aims to promote teamwork, efficiency, and growth, setting the stage for career development opportunities.
During the ceremony, over 50 mentees served tea to their four mentors, who are highly skilled and specialized in various fields, including mechanical engineering and senior technicians. This act symbolized the mentees’ commitment to learning and acquiring knowledge, while paying homage and respect to their mentors—a cherished cultural tradition that reflects their eagerness to grow both professionally and personally.
The unveiling of the Skills Training Center was conducted by LRMG’s Chief Technical Officer, Salim Sillah, accompanied by the ministers and Paramount chiefs. The establishment of this center demonstrates LRMG’s leadership in promoting localization efforts in Sierra Leone. By ensuring that employees and other individuals in the country are job-ready, the company is not only equipping them with necessary training but also empowering them with managerial skills to assume key roles within the organization, thereby fostering a sustainable career path for its staff.
LRMG’s commitment to skills development and mentorship exemplifies
a transformative approach towards fostering excellence, promoting sustainable development, and empowering individuals in Sierra Leone. With the launch of this Skills Training Center and Mentorship Program, LRMG has set a precedent for other companies operating in the region, showcasing the benefits of investing in human capital and local talent. As Sierra Leone continues to progress, LRMG’s efforts will undoubtedly contribute to the realization of the government’s vision for a prosperous and thriving nation.