Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma is leading Sierra Leone’s delegation at this year’s Kimberley Processing Intercession Meeting in Dubai to discuss transformations undertaken by government to improve the mining sector.

Deputy Minister Koroma said that Sierra Leone would use the various engagements to lend its voice to topical issues and other key areas of reform needed for the Kimberley process, noting that Sierra Leone was already playing major role in the event as a member of the panel for the benefit of diamond mining communities, together with representatives from DRC, Russia, South Africa, and other industry players. The Deputy Minister had also co-chaired, alongside the Minister of Mines from Zimbabwe, a meeting of African Diamond Producing Countries (ADPA).

“The Kimberley Certification Process was established in 2002. Since then, the process has worked effectively, helping Africa diamond-producing countries to realise the benefit of diamonds produced in their countries by charging taxes on the exports. The Kimberley Process has 85 countries as members,” he said.

Deputy Minister Koroma also paid a courtesy visit on the Sierra Leone Embassy in the UAE, where he commended the Ambassador and staff for promoting Sierra Leone’s interest in the Gulf-state. He noted that over the years, there had been significant investment interests from the UAE to Sierra Leone adding that that was a testament of the Mission’s hard work. He encouraged everyone to continue in that direction to support President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Agenda.

Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the UAE, Rashid Sesay welcomed Mr. Koroma saying that as an Embassy, they were excited to host him. He also used the occasion to provide updates on the work of the Mission, especially on the relations between Sierra Leone and the UAE, ongoing developments between the two countries and the welfare of Sierra Leoneans living in the country.

Ambassador Sesay conveyed his appreciation to President Bio for his support to the Mission and his development initiatives in Sierra Leone, while commending Mr. Koroma for his service to the country in different capacities. The Sierra Leone Envoy also discussed his new role as Dean of the African Group of Ambassadors in the UAE, noting that that feat had helped to elevate Sierra Leone’s status in the UAE.

“I have no doubt that issues being discussed in this mining meeting are very pertinent to Sierra Leone as a country that has a lot to offer in the mining sector. I trust in your capability that you will make meaningful contributions that will influence the key outcomes that you will take back home to transform the mining sector in the interest of our country,” he ended.