By: James Kamara-Manneh
Amadu Kassim Jah, the Chief Executive Officer of JMAN Group of Companies, is rewriting the story of entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone and transforming the petroleum industry with vision, discipline, and humility. In less than five years, he has built one of the fastest-growing conglomerates in the country, expanding into petroleum, transportation, logistics, and security while employing more than 100 Sierra Leoneans.
His remarkable journey began with challenges that would have discouraged many. At a time when no financial institution was willing to grant him a loan of even $10,000, Jah pressed forward with faith in God, consistency, and discipline. Today, he oversees a fleet of 40 vehicles, is constructing his fifth filling station, and has set his sights on building 50 filling stations nationwide.
For Jah, success is not about luck but about consistency, humility, and focus. He is guided by the principle that “your business money is never your money,” a philosophy that keeps him grounded as he pays himself a monthly salary like any other employee. His outlook is simple yet powerful: “It is better to sit on the chair where you can give, and not ask.”
In September, JMAN Group will unveil JMAN Security Agency, a bold new chapter in its growth story. The security company promises to revolutionize the private security sector in Sierra Leone by providing employment, training, and modern solutions. This new venture highlights Jah’s passion for diversification and his determination to create sustainable opportunities for Sierra Leoneans.
Unlike many entrepreneurs who lean on politics, Jah’s inspiration is driven by purpose, not partisanship. He proudly affirms, “I am a born Sierra Leonean, born and bred here. I believe in this country.” His message is clear to those who doubt Sierra Leone’s potential: “I hear people say there’s nothing in Sierra Leone; you’re a liar. I came back with nothing but knowledge, and today I have built businesses that employ many people.”
Beyond business, Jah is a philanthropist with a heart for people. He believes businesses do not run themselves; people run them. Over the years, he has donated over 5,000 school materials to deprived children, awarded scholarships based on academic merit and background, and consistently given back to society. His giving is not occasional but a responsibility, anchored in his personal principle of generosity.
Deeply spiritual, Jah attributes his success to God Almighty. He insists he began humble and remains humble, always remembering his roots. His life embodies discipline, persistence, and faith qualities he hopes to inspire in the next generation of Sierra Leoneans.
Amadu Kassim Jah represents a new breed of African entrepreneurs who are driven not just by profit, but by purpose. Through JMAN Group of Companies, he is building dreams, empowering people, creating jobs, and proving that Sierra Leone is indeed a land of opportunity for those who dare to work with discipline and vision.
Jah is more than a businessman; he is a visionary, a philanthropist, and a change-maker. His story is proof that with humility, discipline, and persistence, Sierra Leoneans can build industries, transform lives, and change narratives.
JMAN Group of Companies – Building Dreams, Empowering People, Changing Narratives.
