By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone has called on resource-rich nations to secure greater economic benefits from their mineral wealth, with the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, advocating for value addition, industrialization, and stronger local participation in the mining sector during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2026.
Speaking at a high-level panel discussion on rare earth elements and critical minerals, Minister Mattai emphasized that countries endowed with mineral resources must move beyond the traditional role of exporting raw materials and become active participants throughout the entire mineral value chain.
The panel, titled “Rare and Strategic: Sovereignty and International Cooperation in the Field of Rare Earth Elements and Critical Minerals,” examined the growing global demand for critical minerals and their importance in clean energy technologies, industrial development, and technological innovation.
Addressing an audience of government officials, industry leaders, and policy experts, Minister Mattai highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment to ensuring that its mineral resources contribute directly to national development. He pointed to key government priorities, including local content policies, skills development, technology transfer, and increased domestic mineral processing.
According to the Minister, sustainable growth in the mining sector depends on creating opportunities for citizens and developing industries that generate long-term economic value. He stressed that mineral wealth should serve as a catalyst for industrialization, job creation, and broader economic transformation.
Minister Mattai also underscored the importance of international partnerships that promote transparent and resilient supply chains while respecting the sovereignty of mineral-producing countries. He stated that cooperation between nations should be based on mutual benefit, ensuring that producing countries receive a fair and equitable share of the value generated from their natural resources.
In addition, he called for increased investment in Africa’s mining ecosystem, particularly in geological exploration, infrastructure development, workforce training, and downstream processing facilities. He described these areas as essential to unlocking the continent’s vast mineral potential and enhancing its competitiveness in the global minerals market.
Discussions at SPIEF 2026 also focused on responsible sourcing practices, supply chain security, and innovations in mineral extraction and processing technologies.
Minister Mattai’s participation reflects Sierra Leone’s growing influence in international discussions on critical minerals and aligns with the Government’s broader agenda of using the mining sector to drive industrial growth, economic diversification, and sustainable development.