Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security-Designate, Hon. Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has renewed Sierra Leone’s call for greater value addition and beneficiation of Africa’s mineral resources, stressing that the continent must move beyond exporting raw materials and instead create industries, jobs and economic opportunities for its people.
Hon. Koroma made the call on Monday, 31 August 2026, while participating in high-level discussions at the Africa Oil Week (AOW) held under the theme “Investing in Africa’s Natural Resources.” The event brought together government officials, ministers from across Africa, industry experts, investors and other key stakeholders to deliberate on Africa’s role in the global energy transition and the future of its natural resource sector.
The Minister-Designate joined other African leaders and industry practitioners to discuss strategies for positioning the continent as a key player in the emerging global energy landscape, particularly as demand for critical minerals continues to rise due to the transition towards cleaner energy technologies.
Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite and other strategic resources have become central to the global shift towards renewable energy, electric vehicles and advanced technologies. However, growing calls have emerged for African countries to ensure that these resources generate greater economic benefits locally through processing, manufacturing and value addition before export.
Speaking during panel discussions and round-table engagements, Hon. Koroma highlighted Sierra Leone’s growing advocacy for mineral beneficiation, noting that the country has consistently pushed for a new approach where African nations are no longer viewed merely as suppliers of raw materials.
He explained that over the last three years of his service at the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, together with his former boss, they worked to strengthen Sierra Leone’s voice in advocating for local processing, value addition and multiplication of mineral resources before they leave African shores.
According to him, Sierra Leone’s position on resource transformation has gained international recognition, with the country’s advocacy increasingly being referenced at global platforms focused on mining, investment and sustainable development.
“While we are not there yet, our voices are stronger, and we will continue to advocate until we are heard,” Hon. Koroma stated.
The Minister-Designate told participants that Africa could no longer accept a situation where it is repeatedly described as the world’s richest continent in terms of natural resources, yet many of its citizens continue to struggle with unemployment, limited infrastructure and inadequate access to basic services.
He argued that the current generation of Africans is demanding a new partnership model that ensures natural resources translate into meaningful development outcomes.
“Africa is tired of being called the richest continent in mineral resources, but still remaining poor and struggling for roads and other basic amenities,” he said.
Hon. Koroma emphasised that African countries must prioritise beneficiation by developing industries capable of processing minerals locally, creating employment opportunities and retaining more economic value within the continent.
He further called for stronger collaboration among African governments, investors and industry players to establish harmonised policies across the mineral value chain, from exploration and extraction to processing and manufacturing.
“We must create partnerships, collaborate and harmonise our policies in the value chain for the extraction and beneficiation of our natural resources,” he noted.
Addressing investors at the forum, Hon. Koroma highlighted Sierra Leone’s political stability, democratic credentials and readiness to create a favourable environment for responsible investment.
He noted that Sierra Leone has successfully experienced five democratic transitions of power, demonstrating the country’s commitment to democratic governance, stability and the rule of law.
He assured potential investors that Sierra Leone remains committed to honouring agreements, protecting investments and supporting businesses that contribute to national development.
“Sierra Leone is ready and prepared to honour agreements, protect investment and create the enabling environment for investors to thrive,” he stated.
The participation of the Minister-Designate at Africa Oil Week comes at a significant moment as Sierra Leone continues efforts to attract responsible investment while ensuring that its natural resources contribute more directly to economic growth and employment creation.
As he prepares to officially assume office as Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security on Wednesday, 2 September 2026, Hon. Koroma said he remains inspired by the opportunity to continue championing policies that connect natural resource wealth with job creation and improved livelihoods.
He said his new role will focus on advancing employment opportunities, protecting workers’ rights and ensuring better support systems for retirees.
“As I get ready to subscribe to the oath of office tomorrow to officially start my new journey as the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, I am duly inspired, and I will continue to echo Sierra Leone’s call for value addition to our natural resources for proper jobs to be created for our people,” he stated.
Hon. Koroma called on Sierra Leoneans to support the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security as it embarks on a renewed agenda aimed at creating jobs, protecting workers and safeguarding the welfare of those who have retired.
“Sierra Leoneans, follow me to the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security for us to work to create jobs, protect those working, and look after those who retire,” he concluded.