Leone Rock Metal Group, a mining sector company based in Sierra Leone, paid an official visit to China. During this visit, the President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, was hosted and pledged to build a steel mill in the country, emphasizing that the focus would be on iron ore production.
During his visit to the Chendge Steel Mill, Colin Ding, Chairman of China Kingho Energy Group, the parent company of Leone Rock Metal Group, was heard thanking President Bio for visiting the steel mill owned by partner company Chendge Jianlong Special. Ding noted that there is a serious gap in steel production in Africa and there is a lack of steel enterprises, especially in West Africa.
He emphasized that Sierra Leone's existing mineral resources are directly exported with low value added and that the value added of these resources will stimulate the manufacturing industry, increase employment and develop the national economy.
Gilbert Zhao, CEO of Leone Rock Metal Group, announced that he expects to start construction of the steel plant in 2025. Leone Rock Metal Group highlighted various projects for the West Africa region, such as building an international logistics distribution base and establishing a national logistics center. It was also reported that they are working on transportation and bulk materials from China due to the establishment of an African logistics center.
President Bio expressed his satisfaction with Leone Rock Metal Group's fulfillment of its commitments. He welcomed the idea of building a steel mill and said the steel mill's experience in iron ore beneficiation was promising.
"We see the 'Made in China' label all over the world. With this steel mill, we want to see the label 'Made in Sierra Leone'. I think this initiative is important for the development of our country and I will give you every support."
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