By Joseph Momoh, D.S. Reporter
ACCRA — Sierra Leone has called for an end to Africa’s export of raw minerals, urging greater value addition and domestic processing to create jobs and grow local industries.
Speaking at Africa Oil Week 2026 in Accra, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, told delegates, investors and international stakeholders that the continent must move away from the old model of shipping unrefined resources abroad.
“The true value of natural resources lies in local processing that creates jobs, supports domestic industries, and ensures that local communities receive tangible benefits,” Minister Koroma said.
He led the Sierra Leone delegation alongside John D. Cooper, Director of Policy and Research. Both participated in high-level ministerial dialogues under the summit’s theme, “Investing in Africa’s Natural Resources.”
Beyond domestic industrialisation, Koroma also called for stronger inter-African cooperation to build integrated regional value chains. Panellists agreed that regional partnerships are key to unlocking joint infrastructure, attracting private investment, and boosting cross-border trade across West Africa.
The call comes as more resource-rich African nations use policy frameworks to promote local content, capture downstream value, and ensure mining delivers broader economic development.
Sierra Leone’s participation at AOW 2026 reinforces the government’s commitment to job creation, industrial capacity, and sustainable mineral management.
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