It is reported that Sierra Rutile Mining Company, one of Sierra Leone leading mining companies has disclosed plans to expand its mining operational projects in the Bonthe District in order to meet the company annual production target.
In a press briefing at the company head office at Wilberforce, it was made clear that the company has budgeted around USD 177 million to invest on Iron Ore mining in the country.
Mr John Sesay CEO of Sierra Rutile said that the production expansion project initiated by the company will include dry mining as the Lanti deposit and dredge mining of the Mogbwemo tailings will encompass five different chiefdoms in Bonthe District.
He said the capital cost of the project is estimated around USD 177million and thus represents a significant investment by the company into the country’s economy and will continue to create long term employment opportunities in the country and in the district specifically.
He stated that a combination of two dredges ie the existing dredge and the new dredge will replace the already capsized dredge that is yet to be recovered. He said the increasing rate of the company production to 200,000 tons per annum is now making them the biggest iron ore mining company in the world.
He assured the people of Sierra Leone that the expansion project is to manifest its long term operation in the country and to increase its tons output by working towards it optimum realisation.
He said the dry mining project would be outsourced to a contractor through a competitive tender process that he believed will guarantee the long-term success of the Sierra Rutile Limited in the country.
Mr Sesay added that a feasibility study has already been conducted in the areas to know the level of environmental impact that would result. He noted that the cultural understanding between the company and the community people has been successful.
He said his company is strongly working with the line ministry and assured that the company will always work towards it corporate social responsibilities.
(Sourced from www.dredgingtoday.com)
