Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Sierra Leone Mining Week & Exhibition 2025, which was held from April 8-12 at the Freetown International Conference Centre, brought together key players from across the mining landscape to discuss the future of the sector. Under the theme “Sustainable Mining, Shared Benefits: Bringing Sierra Leone’s Mineral Wealth Closer to its People,” the event attracted government officials, mining companies, investors, civil society organizations, and representatives from mining communities.
The week-long event highlighted the mining sector’s important contribution to Sierra Leone’s economy. Stakeholders acknowledged mining as a major source of the Gross Domestic Product, export earnings, and employment opportunities. However, concerns were raised about whether these economic gains are being effectively translated into real benefits for the communities living in mining areas.
One of the central issues discussed was community engagement. There was a strong call for mining companies to ensure that their operations contribute to the development of the areas where they work, particularly in infrastructure, education, health, and social services. Many speakers emphasized that meaningful development in mining areas should be visible and impactful for local populations.
In a radio program titled ‘Wi Economy’ on True Tok Radio, held just after tining Week, Ibrahim Satti Kamara, Director of Communications & Community Affairs at the National Minerals Agency (NMA), responded to public concerns regarding the perceived lack of direct benefits from the country’s mineral wealth.
“Some people say they are not benefiting from the country’s minerals, but benefits come in different forms,” Kamara explained. “The royalties and taxes paid by mining companies go to the government, which then uses that money to run the country. It helps fund services like security, infrastructure, and public programs, things we all benefit from, even if we are not receiving direct cash payments.”
Another key area of discussion was gender inclusion in the mining sector. Esther Finda Kandeh, Executive Director of Women on Mining & Extractives, raised serious concerns about the underrepresentation of women and the disproportionate impact of mining activities on them especially in rural communities.
“In mining communities, women are often the most affected especially when the land and water sources are polluted,” she said. “Women are the ones who fetch water, think about food, and manage the household, so they feel the impact deeply. That’s why our organization is working to get more women involved. Since women are equally affected, they should also have equal opportunities when it comes to jobs in the sector.”
The conference also shed light on the importance of sustainable practices in the mining industry. Environmental protection, responsible resource management, and adherence to ethical standards were stressed as essential for long-term growth and community trust.
The National Minerals Agency used the platform to share updates on regulatory reforms aimed at increasing transparency, ensuring compliance, and attracting more investment to the sector.
As the curtain closed on the Sierra Leone Mining Week 2025, one message was clear: for the country’s mineral wealth to be truly transformative, it must not only drive economic growth but also bring visible, lasting benefits to the people, especially those living in the shadows of mining operations.
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