By Foday Moriba Conteh
The Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, on Friday, 11th April 2025, officially relaunched the Sierra Leone Chamber of Mines during a high-level event held at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown.
The relaunch of the Chamber has ignited fresh optimism in Sierra Leone’s mining sector, setting the stage for enhanced transparency, accountability and significant economic growth.
In his keynote address, the Minister noted that although the Chamber has existed for over 60 years, it became dormant due to disruptions, including the civil war. “Collectively, we are re-emerging this institution with a new vision one that prioritizes transparency, accountability, collaboration and coordination,” he emphasized.
He added, “The relaunch of the Chamber presents numerous opportunities, sustainable mining practices, community development and economic growth. These are not just aspirations but also responsibilities.”
The Minister urged investors and mining companies to embrace this new era of collaboration through the Chamber. “Let us work hand in hand with regulatory agencies like the National Minerals Agency and other Government MDAs to uphold best practices. Today marks the beginning of a brighter future, a new chapter for Sierra Leone’s mining sector written collectively by all mining companies present,” he said.
Lima Sufian-Kargbo, President of the Sierra Leone Chamber of Mines and CEO of Sierra Rutile Limited, described the relaunch as a momentous occasion. “We gather here to affirm our shared belief in responsible mining and the critical role this sector plays in Sierra Leone’s economic and social development. Mining has long been a cornerstone of national revenue, infrastructure and community livelihoods. When guided by good governance and collaboration, it can unlock inclusive growth that touches all layers of society,” she stated.
She further noted that the reconstituted Chamber of Mines will serve as a stronger, unified voice for the industry, fostering strategic engagement with Government, civil society, host communities, regulators and international partners. “Our goal is to strengthen the role of industry players in advancing sustainable mining, investment, innovation and national development,” she added.
Ambassador Sahr Johnny, Chairman of the Mining Advisory Board, highlighted the need for broader understanding of the mining sector. He emphasized that the Chamber must collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to ensure operations benefit not only companies but also the wider society.
Engineer Alhaji Hadji Daboh, Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), described the Chamber as a beacon of hope, alignment and shared value. He praised the mining companies for demonstrating collective ambition and commitment to responsible industry practices.
Saa Emmerson Lamina, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources, reiterated the vital role mining plays in Sierra Leone, referencing the 1991 Constitution. He applauded the revival of the Chamber and assured stakeholders of Parliament’s full support.
Mohamed Baimba Koroma, National Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SLEITI), described the initiative as part of a global effort to promote transparency and accountability in the extractive sector. “We aim to strengthen governance, improve resource management and build public trust through open data and informed dialogue,” he explained.
Andrew Keili provided a historical overview of the Chamber, noting that it was established in 1965 to succeed the former Sierra Leone Mining Association. Founding members included Sierra Leone Development Co. Ltd (Delco), Sierra Leone Selection Trust Ltd., Sierra Leone Ore & Metal Co. Ltd. and Sherbro Minerals Ltd. However, the civil war led to its dormancy, as industrial mining operations halted during the mid-1990s.
Following the end of the war in 2002, improved security enabled industrial mining players to resume operations, paving the way for today’s relaunch.
The officially registered and recognized members of the Sierra Leone Chamber of Mines include:
1. Sierra Rutile Limited
2. Koidu Limited
3. Marampa Mines Limited
4. Meya Mining Limited
5. Leone Rock Metal Group Limited
6. FG Gold Limited
7. CTC Mining (SL) Limited
8. Metals and Minerals Limited
9. CEMMATS Group Limited
10. Leone Mineral Limited
11. Sierra Diamonds Limited
The ceremony concluded with a cocktail reception for members and guests.
