AYV News, August 22, 2024

Minister of Trade and Industry, Madam Fatmata Kargbo has, emphasised the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the public from substandard products.

She detailed the Ministry’s alignment with President Julius Maada Bio’s development strategies aimed at benefiting Sierra Leoneans.

Madam Kargbo highlighted the ministry’s collaboration with key government bodies, including the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and the Consumer Protection Commission, to enforce trade standards. She noted the establishment of the Standards and Compliance Department to ensure adherence to government policies.

The Deputy Minister reported a recent crackdown on the influx of substandard iron rods, which led to the closure of ten shops and fines imposed on defaulters. She warned against compromising on hiring qualified engineers for construction to prevent accidents and fatalities, citing recent incidents in the country.

Looking ahead, Madam Kargbo revealed that the Ministry has proposed a plan to Cabinet for Sierra Leone to start producing its own iron rods. This initiative aligns with President Bio’s vision for human capacity development and will involve setting up a state-of-the-art iron rod factory in Songo. She assured Sierra Leoneans of the Ministry’s continued efforts to ensure importer compliance and public safety.