Local Content Agency Hosts Forum to Boost Strategy
On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) hosted an important Local Content Consultative Forum at their conference room in Freetown. The event, chaired by SLLCA Director General, Mr. Fodeba Daboh, brought together key industry stakeholders and government representatives to strategize on enhancing local content in the nation.
The forum saw participation from a wide range of entities, including the National Mineral Agency, Law Reform Commission, Ministry of Justice’s Law Officers Department, NCTVA, Immigration Department, National Investment Board, Sierra Leone Importers Association, Sierra Leone Union of Technicians, Road Maintenance Funds Administration, Tertiary Education Commission, Consumer Protection Commission, and the National Tourist Board, among others. The central theme of the meeting was to address crucial issues surrounding the implementation of the Local Content Act 2016. Established in 2021, the Local Content Consultative Forum (SLLCCF) serves as a national platform for stakeholders to exchange information and collaborate on strategies to advance local content across various sectors under the SLLCA Act.
Participants at the forum discussed methods to improve the effectiveness of local content policies, ensuring that Sierra Leonean businesses and workers are prioritized in economic activities. They also focused on enhancing collaboration among stakeholders to maximize the impact of local content initiatives.
The significance of the SLLCA’s efforts was recently underscored by His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio during the State Opening of the Second Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone. President Bio emphasized the Agency’s role in fostering market and job linkages through supplier-market development programs, specialized TVET schemes, and initiatives such as the “Made-in-Sierra Leone” shelves in retail outlets, alongside entrepreneurship and bookkeeping skills training.
The forum concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to continue collaborating to implement and strengthen local content policies, driving Sierra Leone’s economic growth and development.
