The National Minerals Agency has partnered with the Anti-Corruption Commission to conduct a series of one-day ethics and integrity training seminars for employees across Sierra Leone’s regional offices.
The training sessions, held in Makeni, Kono, Bo and Kenema from 8 to 11 September 2026, formed part of efforts by the two institutions to strengthen professional conduct, accountability and corruption-prevention measures within the country’s minerals sector.
Conducted on the theme, “Upholding Ethics and Integrity in the Workplace,” the programme brought together newly recruited and existing employees of the National Minerals Agency. Participants included engineers, geologists, mining compliance officers and other personnel serving in the Agency’s regional offices.
The workshops were led by the National Minerals Agency’s Integrity Focal Person, Mrs Nicol, who emphasized the importance of honesty, professionalism and accountability in the execution of the Agency’s regulatory responsibilities.
Mrs Nicol reiterated that the National Minerals Agency maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and other forms of professional misconduct. She warned that any employee found guilty of a corruption-related offence following an internal investigation would face immediate dismissal.
The Focal Person added that where the circumstances require further action, the individual involved would be handed over to the Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.
The warning underscored the responsibilities placed on National Minerals Agency employees, particularly those involved in field inspections, mineral-rights administration, compliance monitoring and engagement with mining companies and communities. Employees operating in those areas are expected to maintain impartiality and resist attempts by individuals or companies to improperly influence their official decisions.
Regional Managers of the National Minerals Agency welcomed the initiative and described it as an important step towards reinforcing ethical behaviour and improving accountability across the institution’s operations.
They noted that the responsible management of Sierra Leone’s mineral resources requires employees who are committed to transparency, fairness and strict compliance with established laws, regulations and administrative procedures.
The interactive sessions provided participants with an opportunity to examine practical challenges associated with ethical decision-making in the workplace. Discussions focused on situations employees could encounter while performing their official duties and the appropriate steps required to protect the integrity of the Agency.
Participants were guided on ethical leadership and accountability, with particular attention given to the role of managers and supervisors in promoting transparent workplace practices. The facilitators stressed that leaders must demonstrate the standards they expect from employees and create an environment in which misconduct can be reported without fear.
The training also addressed conflicts of interest and the importance of maintaining professional impartiality. Employees were encouraged to disclose personal or financial interests that could compromise or appear to compromise, their official responsibilities.
Attention was further given to identifying corruption vulnerabilities within workplace systems and field operations. Participants discussed the importance of recognizing potential risks, reporting unethical practices and following approved procedures when dealing with mining companies, licence holders, community stakeholders and members of the public.
The joint training exercise demonstrated the continuing commitment of the National Minerals Agency and the Anti-Corruption Commission to preventing corruption through education, institutional reform and improved ethical awareness.
Both institutions believe that strengthening integrity within the National Minerals Agency will enhance public confidence, improve service delivery and promote greater transparency in the regulation of Sierra Leone’s mineral resources.
The partnership is also expected to support the development of a professional workforce capable of protecting national interests and ensuring that the country’s mineral wealth is managed responsibly for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.
