Freetown: The Government Printing Department at New England Ville came back to life as Sierra Leone officially reopened its Government Printing Press under the theme, 'Printing the Future of Sierra Leone.' The ceremony drew government officials, staff, and citizens to witness what Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh called 'a historic day' for institutional transformation.

According to Sierra Leone News Agency, in his keynote address, the Vice President emphasized that the reopening goes beyond restoring a physical structure. 'Today, we are not simply opening the printing press,' he said. 'We are restoring our national dignity.' He added that governance must deliver tangible change, with institutions serving as engines of growth and effective service delivery.

The Vice President commended the facility's modernization and reaffirmed the government's focus on technology, innovation, and public sector efficiency. He noted that Sierra Leone must continue turning institutions into revenue-generating assets. 'Today, we are celebrating another mission,' he stated. 'It is evidence of hope and tangible growth.'

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, described the revival of the once-abandoned facility as a 'journey of hope and determination.' He recalled finding a dilapidated site filled with scrap machines and empty rooms, which he immediately saw as 'a goldmine.' The Minister praised long-serving staff for preserving the institution through difficult years and thanked President Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, and international partners for supporting the modernization. 'This is not just the reopening of a building,' he said. 'It is an investment in the future of Sierra Leone.'

Chairman of China Diming Group, Mr. Meng, speaking for the Chinese partners, noted that the modern printing facility reflects growing cooperation between China and Sierra Leone. The project will reduce dependence on imported materials, improve efficiency, lower printing costs, create jobs, and boost local manufacturing. He pledged continued investment in advanced technology and training for Sierra Leoneans through partnerships with local schools. 'We want every employee to grow professionally and share in the company's success,' he said, adding that the company aims to expand across West Africa.

Managing Director of the Sierra Leone Government Printing Department, Mr. Salifu L. Suma, called the reopening a major step toward modernization and national development. He acknowledged years of challenges due to outdated systems and limited resources, but expressed optimism through new partnerships and investments. He thanked staff, government officials, and partners from China and the UK. 'Our ambition is not simply to reform the institution,' he said. 'Our ambition is to transform it into a modern and productive national asset.'

The event concluded with the Vice President and other officials touring the facility to see the newly installed printing equipment and the expanded range of services now available.