The Salala Rubber Corporation (SRC), Liberia’s third-largest rubber producer and processor, is undergoing a significant transformation under the new ownership of businessman Upjit Singh Sachdeva, widely known as Mr. Jeety. This transformation is most evident in the ongoing construction of new housing units for the company’s over 900 employees, a project aimed at rectifying the long-standing issue of inadequate living conditions that plagued the company under previous management. Mr. Jeety’s initiative addresses years of criticism from labor groups and human rights organizations concerning the subpar housing provided to SRC workers. This new housing project, scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, signifies a substantial commitment to improving the well-being of SRC’s workforce and stands in stark contrast to the previous neglect experienced under the former owners, Socfin.
Socfin, a Belgian-French agricultural conglomerate, cited financial losses and labor unrest as reasons for divesting from SRC in mid-June 2024. Their departure followed worker protests over poor housing, inadequate medical care for work-related injuries, and various other unresolved grievances. The acquisition of SRC by Mr. Jeety in August 2024 marked a turning point for the company. Beyond the critical housing project, Mr. Jeety has initiated further improvements, including the renovation of three schools and the company clinic, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to enhancing the overall living and working environment for SRC employees. This proactive approach to addressing worker concerns and investing in community infrastructure reflects a commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and sustainable business practices.
Mr. Jeety’s investment in employee welfare is driven by a belief that a contented workforce leads to a thriving company. He views the provision of decent housing not merely as a business decision but a moral imperative, emphasizing the dignity and respect deserved by the workers who form the backbone of SRC. The construction of over 300 new, spacious two-bedroom apartments signals a significant upgrade from the dilapidated housing previously occupied by many workers. This initiative represents a tangible demonstration of Mr. Jeety’s commitment to transforming SRC into a model of modern plantation management, prioritizing employee well-being as crucial to the company’s success.
The impact of the new housing project is already resonating within the SRC community. Workers who have endured years of subpar living conditions express gratitude for the change, viewing the new housing as a long-overdue improvement and a symbol of hope for a better future. Junior and Yamah Dean, long-time SRC employees, reflect the widespread relief and optimism among the workforce. Morris Fahnbulleh, a local teacher, echoes these sentiments, highlighting the sense of finally being heard and respected by management. The completion of 50 units and their imminent allocation to the first batch of workers signifies tangible progress and fuels further anticipation for the project’s completion.
Beyond the immediate benefits to SRC employees, Mr. Jeety’s impact extends to the broader community. During the festive season, SRC and its parent company, Jeety Rubber, distributed gifts and essential tools to over 5,000 workers, their children, and other community members in Weala and surrounding camps. This act of generosity further strengthens the positive relationship between the company and the local population. Furthermore, Mr. Sachdeva’s personal philanthropic endeavors include providing meals to inmates at the Monrovia Central Prison and the Kakata Central Prison, as well as to disadvantaged youth in Monrovia, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility that reaches beyond the confines of his business operations.
Mr. Jeety’s actions at SRC exemplify a holistic approach to corporate responsibility. By prioritizing employee well-being, investing in community development, and extending charitable support to vulnerable populations, he demonstrates a commitment that goes beyond mere profit maximization. The construction of new housing units, coupled with improvements to other infrastructure and community outreach initiatives, signals a new era for SRC, one characterized by respect for workers, a commitment to sustainable practices, and a focus on building a stronger, more prosperous future for all stakeholders. This transformation not only benefits SRC employees and the local community but also sets a positive example for corporate social responsibility within Liberia and beyond.
