Post a comment Sierra Leone has joined global discussions on the future of critical minerals and rare earth elements, with the country’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Julius D. Mattai, participating as a panelist at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026.
According to information from the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Mattai took part in a high-level panel discussion themed, “Rare and Strategic: Sovereignty and International Cooperation in the Field of Rare Earth Elements and Critical Minerals.”
The session brought together government leaders and industry stakeholders from various countries to examine the growing importance of rare earth elements and critical minerals in advancing the global energy transition, technological innovation, and industrial development.
Speaking during the discussion, the Minister outlined Sierra Leone’s approach to responsible mineral resource governance and the sustainable development of its expanding critical minerals sector.
He stated that mineral-rich countries should secure greater economic benefits from their natural resources through local content policies, value addition, skills transfer, and industrialization initiatives.
Hon. Mattai noted that rising global demand for critical minerals requires stronger international cooperation to support the development of resilient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains.
He emphasized that while countries must maintain sovereignty over their natural resources, partnerships between producing and consuming nations remain important for achieving mutual benefits and ensuring long-term stability within the sector.
The Minister also called for increased investment across Africa in mining infrastructure, geological research, human capital development, and downstream processing facilities. According to him, such investments are necessary to unlock the continent’s full potential within the global critical minerals value chain.
Discussions during the panel further focused on balancing national interests with international cooperation, promoting responsible sourcing standards, strengthening supply chain security, and encouraging innovation in the extraction and processing of critical minerals.
The Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources stated that Sierra Leone’s participation at SPIEF 2026 reflects the country’s growing engagement in international conversations on critical minerals and underscores the Government’s commitment to using the mining sector as a catalyst for economic transformation, industrial growth, and sustainable development.
SPIEF is regarded as one of the world’s leading economic forums, providing a platform for governments, businesses, and international organizations to discuss emerging global economic and development issues.
