By Salamatu Conteh
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) in partnership with the China Diming Group, today officially unveiled the newly transformed and modernized Government Printing Department (GPD) facility at New England Ville, Freetown, marking a major milestone in the country’s drive toward industrial innovation and public sector transformation.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, described the moment as historic and emotional, noting that the transformation of the Government Printing Department reflects the government’s broader commitment to reforming dormant state institutions into productive and revenue generating entities.
The Minister began by extending greetings and appreciation to the Honourable Vice President, colleague Ministers, the leadership and staff of the Government Printing Department, representatives of the China Diming Group, development partners, and distinguished guests present at the event.
“My heart is full,” the Minister stated as he reflected on the journey of the institution. He recalled that when he first visited the GPD three years ago, the facility was in a deplorable condition, describing it as a “junkyard” with only a few outdated machines functioning.
“At the time, there was virtually nothing to write home about,” he said. “But even then, it was clear that we were sitting on gold land. When the Government Printing Department was established decades ago, those who built it had a big vision for Sierra Leone.”
Minister Bah praised the resilience and dedication of the long-serving staff of the institution who, despite difficult working conditions and low wages, continued to keep the department operational over the years.
He emphasized that while the GPD possessed massive infrastructure potential, it lacked the innovation and investment required to compete in the modern printing industry. According to him, the Ministry engaged President Julius Maada Bio and Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on the need to attract international investors to revive the institution.
The Minister explained that several engagements were held with potential investors across Europe, but many lost interest after witnessing the poor state of the facility. However, through the support of Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to China Mr. Abu Karim and the commitment of the Government, a breakthrough partnership was eventually secured with the China Diming Group.
Minister Bah disclosed that under the partnership arrangement, the Government of Sierra Leone will receive 30 percent of the revenue generated by the new GPD operations, while the China Diming Group will receive 70 percent.
He described the agreement as a significant improvement for the state, noting that the Government previously received no meaningful revenue from the institution.
“This is a commendable venture because beyond revenue generation, the partnership also focuses on skills transfer,” he said. “Chinese experts will train Sierra Leoneans in operating modern printing machinery and advanced production techniques.”
The Minister further announced that the revitalized Government Printing Department now possesses the capacity to print all newspapers in Sierra Leone within just 30 minutes, positioning the institution as one of the most advanced printing facilities in the sub-region.
He also revealed plans to resume publication of the Daily Mail newspaper, which will be printed at the new facility and distributed free of charge across the country to enhance access to information.
Paying tribute to Vice President Juldeh Jalloh, the Minister acknowledged his mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support throughout the implementation of the project.
Looking ahead, Minister Bah stated that the Government’s long-term ambition is to transition the Government Printing Department into a fully-fledged Government Automation Agency capable of supporting broader public sector digital transformation efforts. He added that plans are also underway to introduce a new Act in Parliament to modernize the legal framework governing the institution.
The Minister urged staff members to maintain the newly upgraded facility and encouraged government institutions, private companies, and the public to utilize the services of the GPD.
“When you print at GPD, the money returns to the Government and contributes directly to national development,” he emphasized.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister disclosed that the next major transformation target under the Ministry’s agenda will be the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), as Government continues efforts to modernize public communication institutions across the country.
The launch ceremony marks a new chapter for the Government Printing Department and reflects Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to industrial renewal, innovation, job creation, and sustainable public sector reform.
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