By Lawrence Williams
Officials from the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources (MMMR) and the National Minerals Agency (NMA), along with other stakeholders in the minerals sector, concluded a 3-day retreat at the Sierra Palm Resort on Friday, where they discussed strategies and policies aimed at maximising the resource benefits of the minerals sector, improving the legal and regulatory frameworks, promoting environmenal stewardship, strengthening community resilience, and leveraging technology and innovation, among other things.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, NMA Director-General Alhaji Daboh underscored the crucial role of the mineral sector in Sierra Leone’s economy. He expressed optimism and satisfaction in the collaboration between his agency and the ministry, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining focus to achieve greater impact of their stated objectives.
Alhaji M. Turay, board chairman of the NMA, said the retreat was a demonstration their commitment to the progress and enhancement of the mineral sector. He acknowledged the sector’s contributions to national revenue and job creation, while also recognizing the need for further improvements and enabling a conducive environment to attract foreign direct investments.
Mines Minister Julius D. Mattai dwelled on the importance of effectively, efficiently, and transparently managing the mining sector and pledged to address any loopholes in the system. He said the retreat was a platform for constructive discussions and reflections on Sierra Leone’s mineral resources, aiming to create lasting benefits for the nation and its people.
During the three-day engagement, participants engaged in thought-provoking sessions, exploring best practices, innovative approaches, and potential challenges in the mining sector. They explored strategies for optimising revenue generation from mineral resources while ensuring sustainable development. They discussed measures to minimize the environmental impact of mining operations and promote responsible practices.
Additionally, they discussed how local communities should be incorporated into mining decisions and ensured that they benefit from mineral resources, and how technology and innovation can boost mining efficiency, productivity, and safety. During the retreat, the existing regulatory and legal frameworks were analyzed, with critical legal reforms highlighted to ensure their alignment with international best practices and the promotion of responsible mining investments.
The retreat facilitated a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Sierra Leone minerals sector. It marked the beginning of a collaborative journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation as the sector players recommit themselves to ensuring the country’s mineral resources are harnessed for national economic growth and the development of mining communities.
