By Yusufu S. Bangura
Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, announced that Sierra Leone exported $1.2 billion worth of minerals in 2023, marking a significant achievement in the mining sector.
Speaking on Radio Democracy’s ‘Gud Morning Salone’ program on July 4, 2024, Mattai discussed the opportunities, challenges, and successes of the Mines Ministry.
“In 2013, we exported about $1.4 billion, but this figure dropped to $500 million during the Ebola outbreak. After introducing new mining policies, we saw exports rise to $310 million in 2020, $560 million in 2021, $900 million in 2022, and finally $1.2 billion in 2023. For 2024, we aim to reach $1.5 billion,” he stated.
Minister Mattai provided an extensive update on the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy, employment, and benefits for host communities.
He highlighted the Extractive Industry Technical Assistance Project (EITAP), funded by the World Bank, which undertakes geophysical surveys to improve governance and build technical capacity within the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Minerals Agency (NMA).
While 28 large-scale mining licenses have been issued, only 6-7 companies are currently producing. Additionally, 32 small-scale mining licenses have been granted. Last year, gold exports reached 105,000 ounces, generating $12.5 million, while diamond exports totaled $105 million.
Minister Mattai emphasized that the mining sector is both challenging and full of opportunities. He underscored the importance of completing geophysical and electromagnetic surveys to fully ascertain the size, depth, and quantity of minerals in specific areas.
The iron ore sector, including Marampa Mines and Kingho Mining, contributed 65% to exports, with Sierra Rutile contributing 8%, Kudu 20%, and small-scale mining making up the remainder. The minister noted that mining exports accounted for nearly 85% of Sierra Leone’s total exports.
Minister Mattai also addressed the issuance of exploration licenses, explaining that these are necessary for discovering mineral deposits. He stressed that mining activities involve significant capital investment and risk before any returns can be realized.
The government is committed to transparency and stakeholder engagement to ensure the sector’s sustainable growth. Minister Mattai reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to managing mineral resources in accordance with the Mines and Minerals Act 2009, developing policies for systematic exploration, and ensuring the nation maximizes its mineral wealth.
The Ministry continues to attract foreign investments and partnerships, implementing mining policies to promote sustainable practices and equitable revenue distribution.
