By Sulaiman Jalloh
Mark Pritchard, Managing Director of Sonoco Sierra Leone, has said his company is expanding their investment in Sierra Leone, noting as part of its expansion, Sonoco Sierra Leone is investing about fifty million united states dollars (US$50M) in flour production, thus enabling it export to neighbouring countries.
Speaking in a panel discussion on the second and final day of the just-ended civic festival on 12th December 2024, Mark Pritchard expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the government of Sierra Leone for a fantastic job in organizing the festival and for allowing his company to be one of the main sponsors of the two-day event.
According to the Managing Director, in 2024, Sierra Leone was ranked as one of the most improved African countries and only two out of the 54 countries, noting the county has progressed, saying the politicians are doing well but the young people of the African country are vital.
He said they are importing AGM flour from neighbouring country Guinea, but after the construction of a fifty-million-dollar investment, Sierra Leone will no longer import important flour but rather will export. He added that expansion for Bread Avenue is ongoing.
Speaking on the government’s Big Five Game Changers, he said one cannot look at one angle but from a broader aspect. Something he said his company is complementing the efforts of the government as they have the Bread Avenue Academy which he said offers free learning to students. Among the courses they offer are bakery, pastry, and entrepreneurship with start-up capital for deserving students after graduation to start their businesses and help create more jobs.
He furthered that he is looking forward to the government supporting the private sector while calling on citizens to take up responsibility.
