In a significant visit, government officials from Angola are in Sierra Leone to learn about the country's artisanal diamond mining practices and certification processes.

Hon. Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, welcomed the 15-member delegation from Angola on October 1, 2024, at the Ministry’s Conference Room. The meeting focused on sharing Sierra Leone's experience in regulating artisanal diamond mining and implementing a certification system that ensures the traceability and integrity of diamonds for the international market.

During their stay, the Angolan officials aimed to understand how Sierra Leone successfully transitioned its diamond industry into one that emphasizes responsible and ethical practices. Angola, with its abundant diamond reserves, is seeking to reform its own sector by adopting similar measures.

Following the session, the delegation traveled to Koidu Town in Kono District to observe GEMFAIR’s operations, a De Beers-affiliated initiative that promotes ethical sourcing from artisanal miners. This field visit offered valuable insights into how Sierra Leone has moved beyond its troubled history with conflict diamonds, becoming a leader in ethical mining.

The delegation was joined by the President of the World Diamond Council, further highlighting the importance of this collaboration in strengthening best practices in the African diamond mining industry.

Deputy Minister Koroma emphasized Sierra Leone’s commitment to transforming the mining sector into a model of transparency and prosperity. He expressed hope that Angola’s engagement with Sierra Leone would elevate artisanal mining standards across Africa, fostering sustainable development and economic growth.