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COMMENTARY “A New Mineral Future”: Mines Minister Urges Sierra Leone to Embrace Simandou-Inspired Reforms

A Commentary By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The launch of Simandou 2040 in neighbouring Guinea has sent a strong signal across the West African sub-region: Africa’s mineral future is entering a new era; one defined not by dependency and extraction alone, but by sovereignty, value addition and long-term national wealth creation. Among the leaders most attuned to the weight of this moment is Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, whose reflections upon returning from the ceremony offer a powerful blueprint for Sierra Leone’s next steps in mineral governance and economic transformation.

For Minister Julius Daniel Mattai, the Simandou event was far more than a mining milestone. It was, as he described, “the rebirth of a continental vision”, a demonstration that African nations can build institutional strength, negotiate equitable partnerships and chart a future in which mineral wealth underpins national prosperity. Representing President Julius Maada Bio as part of a high-level delegation led by Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Julius Daniel Mattai witnessed firsthand the scale and ambition of Guinea’s approach. That experience, he insists, should serve as a catalyst for Sierra Leone’s long-overdue mineral sector transformation.

Minister Julius Daniel Mattai’s admiration for the Simandou 2040 model is rooted in its deliberate planning and structural reforms. Guinea has not  simply opened another mine; it has integrated Simandou into a national development architecture that includes:

  • A sovereign wealth fund to stabilize public finances and build generational wealth
  • A multi-billion-dollar infrastructure backbone connecting mines to markets
  • Strong legal frameworks rooted in global best practice
  • State equity participation ensuring national ownership of future revenues

Julius Daniel Mattai considers this a powerful demonstration of what African resource governance can achieve when leadership, vision and policy discipline converge. It is this alignment, he argues, that Sierra Leone must now replicate.

The Minister uses the Simandou launch as a mirror, forcing Sierra Leone to confront its own limitations and opportunities. He insists that the country cannot continue operating as a supplier of unprocessed, low-value minerals. Instead, Sierra Leone must pursue a new development philosophy anchored on beneficiation, value addition, infrastructure alignment and institutional reform.

He identifies several critical areas where Sierra Leone can learn from Guinea’s example:

  1. Sovereign Equity Participation:
    Guinea’s 15% equity stake in the Simandou joint venture ensures national benefit far beyond taxes and royalties. Julius Daniel Mattai argues that Sierra Leone must begin negotiating similar arrangements to become a genuine co-owner in major extractive projects.
  2. Robust Legal and Institutional Architecture:
    Simandou is governed by modern legal frameworks that align local interests with global standards. Sierra Leone, he notes, must review and strengthen its mining laws, regulatory systems and oversight mechanisms.
  3. Strategic Infrastructure Integration:
    Guinea’s 640 km heavy-haul railway and new deep-water port reflect a long-term vision that integrates mining with national economic development. Sierra Leone, Julius Daniel Mattai insists, must think beyond rehabilitated rail lines and adopt infrastructure that supports scale, efficiency and multi-user access.
  4. Local Beneficiation and Value Addition:
    With Tonkolili’s iron ore averaging 30–35% Fe, Sierra Leone must invest in beneficiation technologies to create higher-value products capable of competing in global markets, especially now that Simandou’s 65–67% Fe ore is entering the market.

Minister Julius Daniel Mattai does not shy away from comparing Tonkolili and Simandou. He highlights that:

  • Guinea is preparing to produce up to 120 million tonnes of premium ore annually, reshaping global supply dynamics.
  • Sierra Leone must innovate to remain competitive in a market increasingly dominated by high-grade supply.
  • The rise of Simandou presents both opportunities for collaboration and risks of marginalization.

This level of clarity, he believes, is necessary if Sierra Leone is to avoid being left behind.

Beyond policy, the Minister calls for a national shift in mindset. He argues that Sierra Leone must adopt a modern, globally responsive mineral policy shaped by the realities of green energy transitions, critical mineral demand and transparent resource governance.

“Let us refine our mindsets, reform our mining laws and realign our national mineral policy,” he urges, a statement that doubles as both warning and encouragement.

Ultimately, Minister Julius Daniel Mattai’s reflections are not simply technical analyses; they are an expression of belief in Sierra Leone’s capacity to transform its mineral wealth into national prosperity. His concluding message captures that optimism: “Let the lessons from Simandou 2040 inspire us to build a stronger, self-reliant mineral economy; one that turns our natural wealth into lasting national prosperity.”

For Sierra Leone, the message is unmistakable: the future will favour nations that prepare, reform and innovate. Under Minister Julius Daniel Mattai’s guidance, Sierra Leone has both the insight and the urgency required to seize this defining moment.

China-Sierra Leone Renew Health Partnership as Chinese Vice Premier Begins High-Level Visit

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh shaking hands with China’s Vice Premier, H.E. Liu Guozhong

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone and China have renewed their commitment to strengthening public health cooperation, a decade after their united fight against the devastating Ebola epidemic. The renewed pledge formed part of a major bilateral engagement between the two nations, as China’s Vice Premier, H.E. Liu Guozhong, arrived in Freetown for a high-profile working visit covering health cooperation, trade and infrastructure development.

Vice Premier Liu Guozhong was received at Tower Hill by Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, where the two leaders held a bilateral meeting focused on deepening cooperation across education, health, infrastructure and cultural exchange. Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh underscored China’s longstanding support since diplomatic relations were established in 1971, noting that China remains Sierra Leone’s largest trading partner. “Our partnership with China has been built on sustained development cooperation, mutual trust and shared aspirations,” he said.

Their meeting set the stage for two major events on the Vice Premier’s itinerary: the commemoration of ten years since the defeat of Ebola a crisis in which China played a pivotal role and the unveiling of the USD 55 million Fish Harbour Project at Black Johnson funded through a grant from the Chinese Government.

The Vice President described the commemoration ceremony at the Foreign Service Academy as a moment of remembrance and renewed resolve. “This is not just a reflection on our past struggles but a celebration of resilience and partnership that continues to save lives,” he said. He recalled the trauma of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, one of the darkest periods in Sierra Leone’s history and emphasized that it underscored the need for a strong, permanent health-security system. “Preparedness is not an event, it is a system,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh noted, adding that Sierra Leone can now diagnose more than ten epidemic-prone diseases, a capacity that simply did not exist before the epidemic.

He credited China’s swift and decisive intervention during the crisis, saying its support came at a time “when Sierra Leone was at its most vulnerable.” What began as emergency assistance, he explained, has since evolved into sustainable systems strengthening. Facilities such as the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital at Jui, the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Center and expanded laboratory and surveillance infrastructure now form key pillars of Sierra Leone’s national health preparedness network. “Our cooperation with China has evolved from crisis response to building long-term resilience,” the Vice President affirmed.

Vice Premier Liu Guozhong echoed those sentiments, noting that the success of the Ebola response “opened a new chapter in China–Sierra Leone health relations.” He highlighted more than fifty years of continuous medical cooperation between the two countries, during which Chinese medical teams have worked side by side with Sierra Leonean professionals to strengthen healthcare delivery. “We have stood with Sierra Leone through epidemics and emergencies and we remain committed to safeguarding the health of your people,” he said.

He announced several new initiatives under the China–Africa Health Partnership, including the establishment of a Chinese Medicine Center in Sierra Leone, the construction of a biosafety laboratory to expand scientific research capacities and the deployment of telemedicine and artificial-intelligence tools to enhance healthcare service delivery. “Standing on a new historical starting point, China is ready to deepen public-health cooperation and contribute to a shared future for health,” he remarked.

Acting Minister of Health, Dr. Charles Senessie, welcomed the renewed commitments, describing them as “a partnership built on mutual trust, respect and shared purpose.” He hailed China’s rapid deployment of medical experts during the Ebola outbreak and its continued investment in Sierra Leone’s health infrastructure, calling facilities such as the Jui Biosafety Laboratory and the Tropical Disease Prevention Center “monuments to our friendship and determination.”

Dr. Charles Senessie praised Chinese medical teams for training Sierra Leonean health professionals and strengthening disease surveillance and laboratory systems. He stressed that those contributions have significantly improved the country’s ability to detect, prevent and respond to emerging health threats. “Together, we are building a legacy of health, resilience and shared prosperity that will endure for generations,” he said.

The Vice Premier’s visit, one of the most significant high-level Chinese engagements in recent years, reflects the growing importance China places on its partnership with Sierra Leone. Cooperation in health, trade, infrastructure and investment has expanded substantially under the Bio administration, with new projects such as the Fish Harbour at Black Johnson expected to deliver long-term economic and social benefits.

As the commemoration concluded, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening health security and expanding development cooperation. The deepening partnership, rooted in history, strengthened through crisis and anchored in shared aspirations, signals a new chapter in Sierra Leone–China relations focused on building a healthier, more resilient and more prosperous future.

Freetown and Zurich Launch Five-Year Urban Regeneration Project with Sod-Turning Ceremony

Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE welcoming Zurich Mayor Corine Mauch and her delegation to Freetown

By John Baimba Sesay, Senior Communications Manager, Mayor’s Office

On 12 November 2025, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, alongside Deputy Mayor Kweku Lisk, councillors, council staff and representatives from GOAL Sierra Leone, SLRA and SLRSA, officially welcomed Zurich Mayor Corine Mauch and her delegation, including UN-Habitat’s Regional Director for Africa, Oumar Sylla, to Freetown.

The visit was part of the CHF 2.5 million City-to-City Urban Regeneration Partnership between Freetown and Zurich, aimed at revitalizing Freetown’s Central Business District with improved lighting, greener spaces and stronger climate resilience. The project is implemented by GOAL Sierra Leone, with UN-Habitat providing technical oversight and SLRA and SLRSA as key partners.

At a ceremony at City Hall, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr presented Mayor Corine Mauch and her delegation with sash and keys to the city, symbolizing the strong friendship between Freetown and Zurich. The event included a guard of honour by the Freetown Metropolitan Police, a tour of key project sites in the Central Business District and the symbolic sod-turning to officially launch the five-year City-to-City Urban Regeneration Project.

Welcoming the delegation, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr noted that the partnership supports Freetown City Council’s Transform Freetown, Transforming Lives agenda. She reflected on the 2019 meeting that sparked the collaboration, emphasizing that continued cooperation has driven its progress and will ensure its success.

Zurich Mayor Corine Mauch thanked Mayor Aki-Sawyerr and the Freetown City Council for the warm welcome and the symbolic keys to the city. She said she was delighted to finally experience Freetown’s vibrancy, praising the Council’s progress under Mayor Aki-Sawyerr’s leadership. Mayor Corine Mauch highlighted that the City-to-City partnership, launched in 2019, reflects Zurich’s international cooperation priorities and advances SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities.

During the visit, the delegation also met with Vice President Dr. Mohamed Jalloh and other senior Government officials.

Central University Commences 2025–2026 Orientation for New Students

Dean of Students Affairs, Madam Zainab S. Koroma, addressing newly admitted students in Central University

By Ibrahim John Sesay

Central University has officially commenced its 2025–2026 academic year orientation for newly admitted students, marking the beginning of another chapter of academic growth and excellence for hundreds of young scholars across Sierra Leone.

The two-day event, held on November 7th and 8th, 2025, at the university’s Garden Hall in Mile 91, Tonkolili District, brought together new students, faculty members, senior administrators and departmental representatives to welcome and guide the fresh entrants into the university community.

In her opening remarks, the Dean of Students Affairs, Madam Zainab S. Koroma, congratulated the new students for earning their place at the institution. She emphasized Central University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation and character formation, noting that the institution prioritizes holistic student development through quality teaching, mentorship and extracurricular engagement.

The Registrar,  Maligie Sesay, also congratulated the new intakes and urged them to take full advantage of the learning opportunities available throughout their four-year academic journey. He described orientation as a vital process that helps students adapt to university life by acquainting them with institutional policies, academic expectations and campus culture.

“I want to assure you that your choice of making Central University the university of your learning is a proven one. You will enjoy being a student in this institution,” he stated, while encouraging them to embrace discipline, hard work and respect for institutional values.

The Dean of the Faculty of Business and Communications, Unisa Kabia, urged the students to take their studies seriously, reminding them to “major your major and minor your minor.” He noted that Central University is a modern institution that prioritizes technology and innovation across all departments. He also cautioned against cultism and unethical behavior, emphasizing that the university upholds high moral and academic standards.

“Central University is different from other universities, here we don’t sell pamphlets or collect money from students. We have a unique system where course materials are provided electronically to promote fairness and transparency,” he affirmed.

Similarly, the Dean of Technical Sciences,  Isaac Muckson Sesay, welcomed the new students and encouraged them to dedicate themselves fully to their studies. “You have dedicated four years of your life to get a degree and become a meaningful individual in society,” he said. He highlighted the university’s blend of theory and practical learning as a hallmark of its academic approach, noting that most of its staff are young professionals attuned to the digital age.

Heads of departments also addressed their respective students, outlining academic programs and available opportunities. They assured the new entrants of an enabling environment that fosters creativity, research and innovation, while promoting leadership and personal growth.

The orientation featured campus tours to familiarize students with key facilities, including the electronic library, university radio and TV stations, laboratories and the student lounge and canteen.

New students, speaking to The Calabash Newspaper, expressed their excitement and appreciation for the warm reception and insightful sessions. Many said the orientation helped them better understand the university’s values, expectations and academic opportunities.

In his closing remarks, the Students’ Union President, Timothy Tamba Lebbie, warmly welcomed the new students to the Central University family. He assured them of the Union’s commitment to supporting their welfare and academic interests, urging them to stay focused, disciplined and proud representatives of the institution.

The event concluded on a high note, with renewed enthusiasm and unity among the Central University community as it continues to shape the next generation of leaders through excellence, innovation and integrity.

Sierra Leone Commemorates World Intellectual Property Examiners Day 2025, Calls for Stronger IP Ecosystem

Sierra Leone joined the global community in commemorating World Intellectual Property Examiners Day with a high-level ceremony on Tuesday, 11th November, 2025 at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. The event highlighted the pivotal role of Intellectual Property (IP) examiners in fostering innovation, protecting creativity and driving national economic growth.

Jointly organized by the Office of the Administrator and Registrar General (OARG) and the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the commemoration was held under the theme: “Celebrating and Empowering Intellectual Property Examiners.”

Presiding as Chairperson, ACP Johan Bull Kamara emphasized the growing significance of intellectual property in modern economies. “From the likelihood of confusion in the marketplace to the economic impact of infringement, Intellectual Property is not just about ownership; it is about opportunity, protection, innovation and national development,” she stated.

In her welcome address, Ms. Martina B. Egbenda, Administrator and Registrar General, commended the tireless work of IP examiners in ensuring that creativity and innovation receive the protection they deserve. She outlined Sierra Leone’s ongoing progress in strengthening its IP legal and institutional framework, noting vital support from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO). Ms. Egbenda urged stakeholders to remain steadfast in fostering a system that fuels innovation, economic growth and sustainable development.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Justice, Madam Saptieu Elizabeth Saccoh, hailed IP examiners as the “guardians of innovation and integrity.” She underscored the need for sustained capacity building to empower IP professionals with advanced knowledge, modern tools and technological resources. “Examiners must be equipped to meet the demands of a dynamic global economy,” she stressed.

Madam Saptieu Elizabeth Saccoh further called for the integration of digital tools in IP administration, explaining that modernization would “streamline processes and position Sierra Leone as a leader in technological advancement.” She also advocated for a multi-stakeholder approach involving Government institutions, innovators, legal experts and the public to strengthen the national IP ecosystem.

“Our future depends on recognizing the strategic importance of intellectual property to unlock our creative potential and drive national development,” she concluded.

The event brought together Government officials, innovators, legal practitioners and development partners, all united in their call for a robust and inclusive intellectual property framework that safeguards creators’ rights, attracts investment and supports Sierra Leone’s aspirations for knowledge-driven economic transformation.

Salone Civic Festival 2025 Set to Highlight Government Achievements and Accountability

Minister of Information and Civic Education,Chernor Bah

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOICE), has officially launched the 2025 edition of the Salone Civic Festival, a major national event designed to promote civic participation, accountability and national progress. The launch took place on Tuesday, 11th November, 2025 at the Miatta Conference Centre, Youyi Building in Freetown.

In his statement, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming festival particularly noting the strong presence of young people during the launch. “I am delighted to launch the Salone Civic Festival today with mostly young people in attendance because they make up 65 percent of our population. This festival is an opportunity for Government to meet with its citizens,” he said.

Scheduled to run from 11th to 13th December 2025, the Salone Civic Festival will be the largest civic engagement event of its kind in Sierra Leone. It will bring together Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organizations and citizens on one platform to reflect on national progress and strengthen collaboration. The festival is being organized in partnership with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED).

Chernor Bah emphasized that the event directly aligns with His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s directive for MDAs to publicly showcase their achievements and engage citizens meaningfully. “This Festival is a contest of development; an opportunity for every institution to showcase what has been achieved and how citizens can engage,” the Minister noted.

Highlighting the major components of the three-day festival, he said it will feature a Film and Documentary Showcase, a Grand Civic Quiz Competition and the Peace and Unity “Salone Big Pass We All” Concert. There will also be daily panel discussions where citizens will directly engage Government leaders on progress made in key priority areas under the Government’s Big Five Agenda.

“This is an opportunity for you to ask questions, hold your leaders accountable and be part of the national conversation on development,” the Minister encouraged the audience.

The opening ceremony will be graced by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, who will deliver the keynote address. Other distinguished guests expected include the UNESCO Regional Director for Africa and the President of Columbia University’s Population and Family Health Program.

Concluding his address, Chernor Bah urged young Sierra Leoneans to embrace optimism and take bold steps toward transforming the nation. “Those of us who are foolish enough to dream big and believe in the impossible; this is our moment. Take advantage of opportunities and let Sierra Leone fly higher,” he stated.

Afrimoney Users Can Now Pay on Ecobank POS — A First in Sierra Leone

Afrimoney staff pose with staff of Ecobank after a strategic partnership

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a groundbreaking move to strengthen financial inclusion and promote digital transactions, Afrimoney and Ecobank Sierra Leone have entered into a strategic partnership that enables customers to make payments using Afrimoney wallets on Ecobank Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals. The official launch took place at Ecobank’s Head Office in Freetown.

It marks the first time in Sierra Leone that mobile money payments can be made directly on POS devices; an innovation expected to significantly broaden access to digital financial services for both consumers and merchants.

Kate Thompson, Head of Consumer Banking at Ecobank Sierra Leone, described the collaboration as a significant milestone in expanding financial access. She explained that while only about 29% of Sierra Leoneans have bank accounts, around 30% use mobile money wallets, two distinct groups that the partnership now unites.

“Before this innovation, only cardholders could use POS machines. Now, Afrimoney wallet holders can make payments instantly and securely on Ecobank POS without needing a bank account,” Kate Thompson stated. She emphasized that the initiative simplifies everyday transactions, from parents paying school fees to students purchasing supplies, while empowering merchants who previously had to turn away customers without cash or cards. She called it “financial inclusion in its purest form.”

Afrimoney Chief Executive Officer, Martison Obeng-Agyei, hailed the partnership as a “forward-looking example of technology serving the public,” he noted, further maintaining that it is the first collaboration of its kind in the country’s financial sector. He revealed plans to soon extend the service to Ecobank ATMs, allowing customers to withdraw mobile money directly, an advancement that will further strengthen interoperability within Sierra Leone’s financial ecosystem.

Martison Obeng-Agyei highlighted that the system ensures instant settlements and seamless payments. “Once a payment is made on an Ecobank POS, the funds are as good as in the merchant’s bank account immediately,” he said. “It removes the hassle of cashing out and re-depositing money.” He added that the solution was carefully developed over time for “quality and longevity,” expressing optimism about further innovations in 2026.

Ecobank Sierra Leone’s Managing Director, Sebastian Ashong Katai, noted that the partnership stemmed from a deliberate decision to collaborate rather than build in isolation. He described Afrimoney as an ideal partner, citing its strong technological base, extensive subscriber network and retail insights.

According to Sebastian Ashong Katai, “Money alone does not create access unless people have the freedom to use it. By enabling mobile wallet payments on POS devices, we’re expanding those freedoms and empowering customers to transact anywhere.” He further aligned the initiative with the Government and the Bank of Sierra Leone’s broader digital financial transformation agenda, emphasizing that true progress in the financial sector depends on collaboration and interoperability, not competition.

The Afrimoney–Ecobank partnership thus represents a major leap toward bridging the gap between traditional banking and mobile money services. It offers Sierra Leoneans a secure, convenient and inclusive way to transact; reflecting both institutions’ shared commitment to digital transformation and nationwide financial inclusion.

With this milestone development, customers can now use their Afrimoney wallets to make payments across Ecobank’s POS network, ushering in a new era of digital convenience for businesses and consumers alike.

Mines Minister Julius Daniel Mattai: Sierra Leone Draws Inspiration from Guinea’s Simandou 2040 for Shared Mineral Future

Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, has described the official launch of operations for Simandou 2040 at Morebaya Port in Guinea as a defining moment for Africa’s mining and economic transformation. Speaking upon his return from the landmark event held on Tuesday, 11th November 2025, the Minister said he was “deeply inspired and filled with renewed conviction in the power of African cooperation, shared destiny and responsible resource stewardship.”

Julius Daniel Mattai was part of a high-powered delegation led by Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, representing President Julius Maada Bio, accompanied by Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Bah, Deputy Minister of Water Resources, Francis Kallon and other senior Government officials. The delegation attended the event at the invitation of the Government of Guinea for the official launch of the historic Simandou 2040 operations; a project set to transform West Africa’s mining landscape.

According to the Minister, the event symbolized far more than the inauguration of a mining project. “What we witnessed was not merely the dawn of a mining project but the rebirth of a continental vision; an assertion that Africa can mine its own future, add value to its own wealth and determine its own destiny,” he remarked.

He emphasized that Sierra Leone and Guinea share not only a border but also a long-standing historical and cultural bond, describing both nations as bound by “an unbreakable rhythm that echoes from the hills of Simandou to the plains of Tonkolili.”

The Minister lauded his Guinean counterpart, Hon. Bouna Sylla, Minister of Mines and Geology, for steering what he called “a model of transformation that speaks directly to Africa’s aspirations for sovereignty, self-determination and economic renewal.” He stated that Simandou 2040 offers valuable lessons for Sierra Leone in building sovereign equity, strengthening institutions, enhancing legislative oversight and ensuring transparent public-private partnerships.

He underscored that the Guinean model demonstrates how visionary leadership, robust legislation and strategic international partnerships can be harnessed to serve national and continental interests. “Simandou 2040 reflects what is possible when vision, legislation and international partnerships align to serve the people. It shows that good governance, world-class infrastructure and inclusive participation can turn a mining project into a development revolution,” he noted.

Minister Julius Daniel Mattai said Sierra Leone should take inspiration from Guinea’s approach, particularly its strategic use of state equity, insistence on beneficiation and synergy between mining and infrastructure development. These, he said, should inform Sierra Leone’s own policy reforms, institutional strengthening and participation in global critical mineral supply chains.

He called on Sierra Leoneans to embrace this new spirit of transformation and take proactive steps to reform and realign the mining sector to meet contemporary global realities. “Let us refine our mindsets, reform our mining laws and realign our national mineral policy to reflect the 21st-century realities of global commodity demand, just energy transition, local beneficiation and sustainable value addition,” he urged.

The Minister added that Sierra Leone must now position itself as both producer and processor, not merely a supplier of raw minerals but an active player in the global minerals market. “This is our turning point to patriotically navigate the shifting global geopolitics of minerals with clarity and confidence. Sierra Leone must stand as co-owner, not bystander; as voice, not echo,” he stressed.

He expressed optimism that lessons from Simandou 2040 will serve as a guiding light for Sierra Leone’s own mineral future, ensuring that the country transforms its natural wealth into enduring national prosperity. “Together, we can mine not just iron ore but destiny itself,” he declared.

Minister Julius Daniel Mattai provided detailed comparative insights between Guinea’s Simandou project and Sierra Leone’s Tonkolili operations. He explained that Simandou hosts the largest undeveloped high-grade iron ore deposits globally, over 2.5 billion tonnes grading 65–67% Fe, while Tonkolili holds about 13 billion tonnes of lower- to medium-grade iron ore averaging 30–35% Fe, which requires beneficiation and upgrading.

The Simandou Iron Ore Project, he said, is co-developed by the Winning Consortium Simandou, China Baowu, Rio Tinto Group, Chinalco and the Government of Guinea, with an estimated total investment of over USD 23 billion across mine, rail and port infrastructure. The Government of Guinea holds a 15% equity stake in the joint venture, an example of state participation that strengthens national ownership and economic returns.

In contrast, the Tonkolili Iron Ore Project, now operated by Leone Rock Metal Group (formerly Kingho Mining Company), has recorded cumulative investments of about USD 2–3 billion, covering mine, rail and port facilities. The project’s infrastructure includes approximately 200 km of rehabilitated narrow-gauge railway from Tonkolili to Pepel Port, with limited capacity and restricted multi-user frameworks.

Meanwhile, Simandou’s infrastructure features over 640 km of new trans-Guinean railway built to international heavy-haul standards, linking the Simandou mine site to the newly constructed Morebaya deep-water port. The system operates under a multi-user access policy, ensuring shared national benefits and promoting regional integration.

Minister Julius Daniel Mattai emphasized that Simandou is expected to produce up to 120 million tonnes of high-grade iron ore annually at full capacity, with shipments starting in November 2025 and reaching maximum output between 2028 and 2030. That volume represents 7–9% of the global seaborne iron ore supply and could generate more than USD 10 billion in annual revenues for Guinea, depending on market dynamics.

He explained that Guinea’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to grow by 26% by 2030 as a result of Simandou’s operations, with substantial increases in tax revenue, export earnings and public investment potential. He also noted that the socio-economic benefits include thousands of new jobs, extensive infrastructure development and enhanced community capacity.

However, the Minister cautioned that the emergence of Simandou also presents competitive challenges for Sierra Leone’s iron ore industry due to differences in grade quality and production costs. He stressed that Sierra Leone must now focus on local beneficiation, infrastructure optimization and innovation to maintain competitiveness in the evolving global market.

He concluded that both Sierra Leone and Guinea have an extraordinary opportunity to collaborate on regional value chains and ensure that West Africa’s mineral wealth drives inclusive, sustainable development. “Let the lessons from Simandou 2040 inspire us to build a stronger, self-reliant mineral economy; one that turns our natural wealth into lasting national prosperity,” Julius Daniel Mattai affirmed.

Telecommunications Sector Records Drastic Reduction in Data Costs Over Five Years

Bar chart showing reduction in data cost over the years

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Over the past five years, the price of mobile data in Sierra Leone has remained remarkably stable and, in fact, has significantly declined despite public perception that costs have gone up. In 2016 1GB was 20 US dollars, Industry figures show that when subscribers once paid about US $1.50 for 1 GB of data, the same amount now costs roughly US $0.90, reflecting a drastic reduction in the overall trend of data prices across the country. Contrary to popular belief, telecommunications operators have worked steadily to make internet access more affordable and reliable for users nationwide.

This reality came into sharper focus during recent public debates surrounding new data plans introduced by some mobile operators. Many subscribers initially assumed those adjustments represented a price hike, but closer analysis indicates that the changes were not increases in tariffs. Rather, they were promotional initiatives and network management reforms aimed at improving service quality, ensuring fairness and easing congestion on increasingly busy data networks.

According to industry experts, the adjustments were introduced only after extensive consultations with the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), civil society groups and the media. The objective, they explained, was to establish a fairer structure that would allow every subscriber to enjoy stable internet speeds.

Under the previous open model, a small number of heavy users consumed a disproportionate share of bandwidth, often slowing connections for others. The revised frameworks, based on internationally accepted best practices, help maintain balance and ensure that the overall user experience remains fast, reliable and equitable.

Telecommunications analysts further note that those new plans did not remove unlimited browsing. Instead, they introduced mechanisms to regulate internet speeds temporarily after unusually high levels of data consumption within a short period. This approach, they said, protects network performance and enhances the experience for the majority of customers. Operators remain committed to affordability and are actively expanding connectivity from urban centers like Freetown to the most remote communities in the provinces.

However, the rollout of these new structures drew the attention of the Parliamentary Committee on Information and Communications, which ordered that certain plans be reviewed and temporarily adjusted. The operators promptly complied with the directive, made necessary modifications to specific bundles and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and public accountability. They also maintained that all consultations had been completed with NaTCA before the implementation, underscoring that the revisions were part of ongoing efforts to improve user satisfaction and service quality.

Over the years, Sierra Leone’s telecommunications industry has continued to demonstrate progress in affordability, innovation and infrastructure investment. The sector’s sustained focus on network expansion and digital inclusion has helped bridge the connectivity gap and improve access to digital services for millions.

Ultimately, claims that data prices have risen are not supported by the facts. The evidence clearly shows that mobile data prices in Sierra Leone have dropped sharply over the past five years, marking a drastic reduction in the overall trend of costs. As operators continue to strengthen their networks and refine pricing models, they reaffirm a central goal; to keep data affordable, reliable and accessible to every Sierra Leonean.

NaTCA Director General Outlines Mandate, Priorities and Consumer Protection Focus

Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaTCA), Amara Brewah

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an exclusive engagement with an array of media practitioners and Civil Society activists, the Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaTCA), Amara Brewah, provided an in-depth explanation of the Authority’s regulatory mandate and its pivotal role in shaping Sierra Leone’s digital and communications landscape. He described NaTCA as the country’s principal regulator for electronic communications and digital infrastructure, established under the National Communications Authority Act of 2022. The Act, he explained, empowers the Authority to issue licences, manage the national radio frequency spectrum and numbering plan, enforce standards, protect consumers and promote fair competition within the communications sector. According to Amara Brewah, NaTCA operates as an independent regulatory body that reports to Parliament through annual reports and audits, ensuring accountability while maintaining focus on long-term sectoral development and stability.

Addressing the gathering, Amara Brewah explained that NaTCA’s operations are built on the principle of balancing stakeholder interests; Government, consumers and investors. He stressed that the Authority supports the Government’s priorities in national security, economic development and universal access by aligning its regulatory framework with the National Digital Economy Strategy.

The Director General highlighted that NaTCA’s policies promote connectivity, innovation and cybersecurity while also managing the Universal Access Development Fund to extend communication services to remote and underserved communities. He disclosed that NaTCA contributes to national policy formulation by providing technical data and recommendations to the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation.

A recent cost study on telecommunications services, he said, is being used to develop pricing formulas that ensure affordability while safeguarding investor confidence.

Amara Brewah underscored that NaTCA’s consumer protection mandate remains one of its strongest pillars. He explained that the Authority is responsible for resolving disputes between operators and subscribers concerning rates, billing and service quality.

According to him, NaTCA enforces strict quality of service standards, regulates equipment safety and ensures transparency in subscription validity to prevent consumers from being shortchanged.

“The regulator’s role is delicate because we must consider three different players; consumers, investors and the Government,” he stated, emphasizing that “the first person is the consumer.” He reaffirmed that NaTCA’s commitment to quality service delivery is non-negotiable and that enforcement actions against defaulters, though sometimes unpopular, are necessary to protect the public interest. “These actions are not punitive but corrective, ensuring that service providers take the people of Sierra Leone seriously,” he noted.

Speaking further, Amara Brewah said NaTCA continues to maintain a fair and stable investment climate for operators through transparent licensing, interconnection rules and infrastructure-sharing policies. He explained that the Authority enforces competition laws, investigates anti-competitive practices and intervenes where necessary to prevent market abuse or monopolistic behavior.

He reaffirmed that NaTCA’s stakeholder consultation processes are designed to foster inclusivity and transparency, allowing industry players to contribute meaningfully to regulatory decisions.

The Director General also pointed out that NaTCA’s credibility ultimately rests on public trust, which is built through clear and consistent communication with consumers. Citing examples, he noted that the ongoing SIM registration and National Identification Number (NIN) linkage, though seen by some as inconvenient, is essential to combat digital fraud and strengthen national security. Likewise, he said cost-based pricing regulations and enforcement actions against defaulting operators are meant to ensure fairness, affordability and integrity within the industry. “We only resort to sanctions when dialogue fails. Such actions are taken to protect consumers and uphold the quality of service that Sierra Leoneans deserve,” he stressed.

Concluding his engagement with the media and civil society, Amara Brewah reiterated NaTCA’s unwavering commitment to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, Government, investors and consumers. He said recent reforms, including cost-based pricing reviews, enhanced service quality monitoring and the enforcement of SIM registration policies, reflect NaTCA’s drive to promote transparency, accountability and public trust. “Our ultimate goal,” he said, “is to create a vibrant, inclusive and secure digital ecosystem for Sierra Leone; one that supports innovation, protects consumer rights and ensures that communication remains a tool for national development and progress.”

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