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Information Minister Chernor Bah says Sierra Leone will seek to turn growing international competition over its critical minerals into stronger economic benefits for its people.
Bah was responding to increased U.S. interest in Sierra Leone’s critical minerals and other investment opportunities, including in the country’s energy and infrastructure sectors.
He acknowledged that Washington wants American companies to secure a leading position in potential investment opportunities, particularly in critical minerals.
“They want to be at the front of the queue when it comes to critical minerals, and that is something we are negotiating.”
Bah said Sierra Leone should not view competition among international investors as a threat, but should use it to strengthen the country’s negotiating position.
“It is our responsibility to make sure that we benefit from that competition. Americans are capitalists. It’s a competition. What we want to do is to get the best deal for the people of this country.”
The minister said the government’s priority should be ensuring that foreign investment produces measurable benefits for Sierra Leoneans rather than simply attracting capital into the country.
His comments come as the United States signals stronger commercial and strategic interest in Sierra Leone, particularly in critical minerals, energy and infrastructure.
The increased U.S. focus has also raised questions about Washington’s relationship with China in Africa. Bah sought to put the rivalry in perspective, pointing to the significant trade relationship between the two economic powers.
“One of China’s biggest trading partners is the United States. So forget about what you hear at the Senate hearing, the red meat that is thrown.”
Bah’s remarks emphasise the government’s stated position that Sierra Leone should engage multiple international partners while negotiating investment agreements on terms that protect and advance national interests.
