Freetown, 22nd October, 2026 – Marampa Mines Limited (MML) has announced a temporary suspension of operations at its Marampa Mine in Lunsar, citing difficult market conditions, high freight and operating costs, and ongoing operational challenges.
The company said it has submitted a formal notice of temporary suspension to the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources.
According to a joint business update issued by General Manager Angula Kalili and Chief Executive Officer Paul Lombard, the move is part of the ongoing “Marampa Reset” – a strategy announced in September to secure business stability before pursuing further growth.
“Despite progress, external forces mean we must take further steps to protect Marampa’s future,” management said, describing the action as rebuilding the “Marampa House on a stronger, more sustainable foundation.”
During the suspension period, the company will retain only the minimum staff required on site to protect its licence to operate, maintain essential services, and safeguard assets.
Critical functions including safety, security, power supply, tailings and water management, environmental protection and essential maintenance will continue to keep the mine ready for a return to production when market conditions improve.
Management said it is preparing a controlled shutdown-readiness plan detailing how activities will stop safely, what work will continue, and the staffing arrangements required.
The company also flagged high fuel costs as a major constraint, noting that it must conserve available fuel to sustain essential services during the suspension.
The restructuring announced in September will continue, with management stressing that accountability starts at leadership level. Staff directly affected by the changes will be informed through their Heads of Department and Human Resources.
“These are difficult decisions, and we recognise their impact on employees and their families. Behind every role is a person and a contribution that has helped build Marampa,” the statement said.
The company urged employees to remain calm, follow safety procedures, avoid speculation, and treat colleagues with dignity and respect, adding that cost reduction must not compromise safety or obligations to employees, communities and Government.
Despite the suspension, management pointed to Marampa’s long-term potential, anchored on its mineral resource and its people, and encouraged staff who are able to continue supporting community initiatives including the Street Child Sierra Leone Marathon and the Well Woman Clinic Walk for breast cancer awareness.
