Sierra Leone Hosts African Diamond Producers for Landmark Mining Week

President Julius Maada Bio yesterday, April 10, officially opened the 10th edition of the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA) Mining Week, held for the first time in Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown, President Bio welcomed guests from across Africa and thanked the ADPA Secretariat for choosing Sierra Leone. He said the event was a big step for the country’s mining journey and showed Sierra Leone’s growing part in Africa’s mineral development.

“Sierra Leone is proud to host this important event. I am confident that our collective resolve will ensure its success and leave a lasting impact,” President Bio said.

He spoke about Africa’s long history in diamond production and how diamonds are tied to the continent’s culture, economy, and future.

“Africa’s diamond industry is steeped in history, interwoven with our cultures, economies, and aspirations. Our diamonds are not just resources; they are the sparkling jewels of our heritage, fueling opportunity and igniting hope across our communities,” he said.

President Bio asked ADPA member countries to work more closely together, align their laws, and support each other with skills and knowledge to improve the industry.

He said, “We must ensure that the wealth from our diamonds drives sustainable development.”

He also spoke about Sierra Leone’s recent reforms, especially the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022.

“We have improved oversight, strengthened community engagement, and addressed emerging challenges with comprehensive reforms,” he said.

He called for African countries to move from only exporting raw diamonds to doing more work like cutting, polishing, and making jewelry locally.

“This strategic shift will create jobs, build our industrial capacity, and increase revenues,” he said.

President Bio ended by saying Sierra Leone is committed to working with other countries to make sure the diamond sector helps all Africans.

“Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to a future where our diamonds shine as a true source of prosperity, peace, and development for all Africans,” he said.

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Minerals Agency, Alhaji (Ing.) Hadji Dabo, said hosting the Mining Week in Freetown shows the President’s strong commitment to openness and responsible mining.

“The successful hosting of this 10th Ordinary Session signals Sierra Leone’s readiness to collaborate and lead in shaping the future of Africa’s mining industry. I am optimistic that this week will establish a framework for enduring cooperation within the continent’s mineral sector,” he said.

Outgoing ADPA President and Zimbabwe’s Minister of Mines, Hon. Winston Chitando, thanked President Bio and the government.

“This gathering reflects our shared commitment to positioning Africa at the forefront of global diamond production and trade. Let us continue working together to promote the interests of the continent,” he said.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Julius Mattai, who now takes over as ADPA President, thanked President Bio for his leadership and focus on ensuring Sierra Leone’s people benefit from natural resources.

The Mining Week serves as an important platform for sharing ideas, building partnerships, and encouraging sustainable practices across the mining industry. It is also a call to action to manage Africa’s mineral resources responsibly and ensure they bring real benefits to its people.