President Bio opens 10th ADPA Mining Week in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone's President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially opened the 10th Ordinary Session of the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA) Mining Week. Held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown, the event marks a milestone for the country, which is hosting this gathering for the first time.

In his keynote speech, President Bio welcomed the ADPA delegation and thanked the ADPA Secretariat for choosing Sierra Leone as the host. "Sierra Leone is proud to host this important event. I am confident that our collective resolve will ensure its success and leave a lasting impact,” he said.

President Bio emphasized Africa's historical role in diamond production, urging policymakers to enhance cooperation between member states and focus on sustainable development. He highlighted Sierra Leone's progress in mining reforms as an example, mentioning the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022. "We have improved oversight, strengthened community engagement, and addressed emerging challenges with comprehensive reforms,” he stated.

He also called on African nations to transition from exporting raw diamonds to engaging in value-added activities like cutting and polishing, saying, “This strategic shift will create jobs, build our industrial capacity, and increase revenues."

With these remarks, President Bio declared the 10th Ordinary Meeting of the ADPA Council of Ministers and the Sierra Leone Mining Week 2025 officially open.

Director General of the Sierra Leone Minerals Agency, Alhaji (Ing.) Hadji Dabo, noted that the event showcased Sierra Leone's commitment to transparency and sustainable mining. “The successful hosting of this 10th Ordinary Session signals Sierra Leone’s readiness to collaborate and lead in shaping the future of Africa’s mining industry," he remarked.

Outgoing ADPA President Winston Chitando praised President Bio and the government for the opportunity to host the event. “This gathering reflects our shared commitment to positioning Africa at the forefront of global diamond production and trade," he said.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Julius Mattai, who assumes the presidency of the ADPA, recognized President Bio's leadership and the government's policy reforms. He emphasized the significance of the Mining Week as a platform for partnership and sustainable practices. “It is a call to action to manage our mineral resources responsibly and ensure they translate into real benefits for our people,” Mattai stated.