By Sheku Putka Kamara
The Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Madam Jeneba Bangura has launched the government of Sierra Leone’s Fuel Marking and Testing. The ceremony which took place on Friday March 1st, 2024 at the National Petroleum Terminal, Kissy/Shell attracted several other dignitaries from the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) and SICPA-SL, among others.
CG Jeneba described the launching as an important occasion, stating that it is a government owned program. She commended PRA and the oil marketers for what she described as laudable efforts in aiding the processes. She said that there were initial doubts regarding fuel marking, but stated that such doubts have now been cleared.
At the conducted tour at the warehouse, CG Jeneba said that he was impressed with the facilities, noting that maintaining and improving same should now be the focus. She said that he appreciated the utmost coordination and collaboration from all parties involved, adding that with such exercise, fuel smuggling could be curtailed. She said that with marking, all products and commodities should now have stamps, stating that those without stamps would be deemed illegal and or not fit for purpose. She said that it is on such note that culprits will be brought to book for not adhering to set standards. She added that with the policy, all parties would be protected and in the best interest of the country.
Deputy Executive Chairman of PRA, Alfred Kobba said that the processes of fuel marking have showcased demonstrated leadership even with the challenges. He commended, NRA, NP and SICPA-SL for the resilient efforts and called on all and sundry to make a judicious usage of the opportunity.
General Manager of SICPA-SL, Maxwell Massaquoi said that he was thankful for the endless collaborations and urged all and sundry to continue to leave up to expectations.
Finance Manager, NP-SL noted that as a responsible cooperate citizen, NP has been able to mobilize oil marketing companies to enhance revenue generation.
Civil Society rep, William Sao Lamin said that they will aid in effective monitoring, advocacy and sensitization, noting that collective responsibility has to come from all parties.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)