Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Hon. Fatmata Kargbo, has proudly revealed that Sierra Leone will soon begin local production of vehicle batteries, a historic milestone for the nation’s manufacturing sector.

The development was highlighted during an exhibition held at the Freetown International Conference Centre, Bintumani, organized by the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM).

Upon witnessing the launch of the company responsible for the initiative, Minister Kargbo expressed her deep excitement and commitment to the project. “This is the first time in the history of Sierra Leone that we will have a factory producing batteries for vehicles,” she declared.

The production is set to commence in June 2025, a timeline that Kargbo believes will significantly transform the automotive landscape in the country.

Kargbo emphasized that the innovative project will make a substantial impact on the lives of consumers, who have long faced difficulties in sourcing vehicle batteries from abroad. “This groundbreaking innovation will be a huge boost for Sierra Leone,” she stated, commending the government’s ongoing dedication to national development.

“Just like the government believes in development and transformation, we now have a factory that will be producing batteries for our citizens,” she added.

The Minister also extended her congratulations to the production company for its commitment to Sierra Leone’s economic growth. “They are ready to promote this country, and they believe that together, we can help to build the nation,” Kargbo affirmed, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving national progress.

As the representative of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Kargbo reiterated that the production of vehicle batteries is not only an industrial venture but a strategic move for the country’s economic future. “More factories will be opened, ensuring that President Bio’s agenda for growth and transformation becomes a success,” she announced.