By George M.O. Williams
Sierra Leone – November 2025: Dura Plast and Ferro Fabric Sierra Leone Limited has strongly denied allegations of importing substandard iron rods into Sierra Leone, describing the claims as misleading and aimed at tarnishing the company’s reputation.
Speaking to the press, Mohamed H. Bility, General Manager of Dura Plast, clarified that the company does not sell iron rods in Sierra Leone directly, noting that sales are conducted through its subsidiary in Liberia. He stressed that the iron rods imported into Sierra Leone were strictly for construction purposes, not for resale in the open market.
“Our products have undergone rigorous quality assurance and meet international standards. Video evidence confirms that the iron rods were offloaded at our facility for construction use,” Bility said.
He emphasized that Dura Plast, which also operates in Ghana and Liberia, maintains high manufacturing standards. The company’s Ghana factory is highly rated and adheres to strict production requirements, with products certified under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Several reputable companies that use Dura Plast products have also verified their quality.
Bility dismissed the allegations as attempts by competitors to avoid fair market competition.
“Businesses should compete through pricing and product quality, not unfounded accusations. We are here to stay, and the market is not meant for one company alone,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about product sizes, Bility explained that Dura Plast operates a Just-in-Time (JIT) stock management system, producing iron rods strictly according to customer specifications. He added that the company’s technology allows it to provide the chemical composition of any product manufactured.
On customs duty concerns, Bility clarified that Dura Plast’s products are certified under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), which exempts them from customs duties but requires payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST). He noted that the iron rods seen at the border were destined for Marampa Mines and the company’s own factory, not for sale in the open market.
He further highlighted that media practitioners and civil society organizations were present during the offloading of goods, ensuring transparency.
Concluding, Bility urged competitors to focus on improving their pricing and product quality rather than attempting to maintain monopolies.
“We are committed to fair competition, high standards, and contributing to Sierra Leone’s development. Our focus remains on delivering safe, reliable, and internationally certified products,” he said.