The Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources has engaged key stakeholders in a crucial discussion on utilising the Community Development Fund (CDF), aiming to ensure transparency and accountability in its management. The meeting at the Freetown City Council Hall brought together government officials, mining executives, local leaders, and community representatives.
Ensuring Fair Distribution of Mining Benefits
Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Umaru Napoleon Koroma—who also serves as Secretary General of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)—welcomed participants and emphasized the need for an open and inclusive dialogue. He stressed that mining communities must directly benefit from extractive activities and advocated for discussions in Krio to enhance understanding.
Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), Haji Alhaji Daboh, acknowledged past challenges in the management of CDF, stating that funds have not always been adequately utilised. "For far too long, mining companies have been accused of failing to meet their obligations to local communities. This time, we must ensure these funds are used effectively for the benefit of landowners and future generations," he said.
Crackdown on Corruption and Strengthening Oversight
Hon. Emerson Lamina, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources, highlighted findings from President Julius Maada Bio’s administration regarding corruption in the mining sector. "President Bio is committed to protecting the state’s interests and ensuring that the people of Sierra Leone fully benefit from our mineral wealth," he stated.
Lamina underscored the irreversible nature of mineral extraction and the need for responsible management, saying, "You take our land, you take our hearts. These resources are not replaceable, so we must manage them wisely."
A Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs representative stressed the need for proper governance structures in managing the CDF. "Chiefdom authorities must follow the correct channels—district councils have the legal mandate to oversee development projects. This is about accountability and real development, not superficial or ‘cosmetic’ projects," he said.
Minister Mattai Unveils Reforms for Sustainable Growth
Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius D. Mattai reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring mining revenues benefit local communities. "Sierra Leone has not fully reaped the rewards of its vast mineral wealth for too long. We are here to change that," he declared.
He outlined key reforms, including:
Capacity-building initiatives for community leaders managing the CDF.
Regular stakeholder meetings to ensure transparency.
Integration of technology to improve monitoring and accountability.
"Investors are here to do business, and the more they earn, the more contributions they make to the CDF. If managed correctly, these funds can transform our communities and uplift the people's lives," he added.
Mining Companies Pledge Compliance
Representatives from significant mining firms—including Marampa Mines Limited, Sierra Rutile Limited, Koidu Limited, Foison Resources (SL) Limited, Jong Minerals Company Limited, FS Mining Company (SL) Limited, and WTG Mining Company Limited—delivered presentations on their compliance with mining legislation concerning CDF contributions.
Call for Collective Action
Closing the session, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, Nancy Tenbeh, urged all stakeholders to commit to transparency and collaboration. "This is about our country’s future. We must work together to ensure that Sierra Leone’s mineral wealth translates into real development for our communities," she concluded.
Sheku Kutubu
SLENA Correspondent
+23276840618
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