Minister-designate of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Hon. Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has used the Africa Oil Week (AOW) platform to make a strong case for Africa to stop exporting raw natural resources and instead focus on value addition, job creation and local economic growth.
Speaking during discussions on “Investing in Africa’s Natural Resources,” Napoleon Koroma stressed that Africa must benefit more directly from its vast mineral wealth, particularly as critical minerals become increasingly important to the global energy transition.
He said Sierra Leone has consistently advocated for beneficiation and value addition to its mineral resources before export, noting that the country’s position is increasingly gaining recognition on the global stage.
“Africa is tired of being called the richest continent in mineral resources but still poor and struggling for roads and other basic amenities.”
He called for stronger partnerships, policy harmonisation and collaboration across Africa’s natural-resource value chains to ensure minerals create jobs, income and opportunities for African citizens.
Addressing investors, Koroma described Sierra Leone as a stable democracy that is ready to protect investments, honour agreements and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
As he prepares to officially assume his new role as Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, he says his focus will remain firmly on creating jobs, protecting workers and supporting retirees.
From minerals to meaningful jobs, Napoleon Koroma says Sierra Leone must ensure its natural resources deliver greater benefits for its people.
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