Written on 26.01.2012 - Industry
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SIERRA LEONE: Chinese investors to boost rubber production

A group of Chinese companies have expressed interest in boosting the rice and rubber production in Sierra Leone's agricultural sector, says the minister of agriculture forestry and food security at the ministry's conference hall in Freetown.

Dr. Sam Sesay stated that the Hainah Group of Companies for International Economic Development is determined to invest millions of dollars in the country's agricultural sector to provide job opportunities and other economic benefits for Sierra Leoneans.

The minister noted that the government of Sierra Leone will provide necessary documentations and land as part of the agreement to fast- track the project.

"These investors are determined to expend millions of dollars in this project. They want to produce rubber and rice in commercial quantities. Additionally, the project will provide enormous revenue for the government and also job opportunities for Sierra Leoneans," he said. "The project is expected to kick-start next month and we have already provided a parcel of land at Mile 91 for the construction of offices."

Dr. Sesay added that the investment is timely as it is one of the biggest projects for the ministry.

Chairman of the company, Zhoughen emphasized that the Shanghai-based company has been operating for the past sixty years with an outstanding international record.

He said the company is ready to invest both financial and technical expertise to ensure that the project is successful.

"We have what it takes to improve on the rubber industry in the country. The government of Sierra Leone through the ministry of agriculture has done remarkably well to ensure that this project is implemented within the shortest possible time," he said.

Source: Daily "Concord Times", Freetown; 19 Jan 2012

(Syed Rashid Ali, Karachi, Pakistan)