The Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, along with the Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), Ing Hadji Dabo, extended a warm welcome to the Chairman of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), Mr. Ahmed Ben Sulayen of the United Arab Emirates, during his visit to Sierra Leone. Addressing stakeholders, including mining companies, diamond exporters, civil society, and parliamentarians at the NMA Conference Room on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024, the Minister expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the Chairman and his delegation. He highlighted the significant progress made by the country in transforming its diamond industry from one associated with blood diamonds to an industry that serves the people. The Minister assured the delegation of Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to the Kimberley Process, emphasizing the country’s dedication to working closely with other nations to promote and safeguard the integrity of the diamond trade.
In response, the Chairman commended the Minister’s commitment and emphasized the importance of African countries taking the lead in advocating for their interests and amplifying their voices in the diamond industry.
The delegation’s engagements will continue with further interactions with stakeholders and a visit to the diamond-rich district of Kono.
