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Kono District, a region that has emerged as a major site for diamond discoveries since the end of Sierra Leone’s civil war, faces growing scrutiny over how the substantial revenues from these precious stones have been utilized.
Despite unearthing some of the world’s largest and most valuable diamonds, the district’s development remains starkly behind, with ongoing concerns about the allocation of diamond revenue for infrastructure and educational improvements.
Major Discoveries Post-War
Since the end of the conflict, Kono has been the epicenter of several notable diamond finds:
Meya Mine (2024): A 391.45-carat diamond, highlighting Kono’s ongoing prominence in the global diamond industry.
Peace Diamond (2017): Discovered by a local pastor, this 709.48-carat diamond was sold for $6.5 million with an intention to benefit the local community.
Meya Mine (2017): Another significant find, this 476.98-carat diamond further showcased Kono’s diamond-rich fields.
Unity Diamond (2007): A 130.35-carat gem symbolizing the nation’s post-conflict unity and peace.
Lion’s Heart Diamond (2005): Weighing 126.62 carats, this diamond reasserted Kono’s status in the diamond industry.
Koidu Diamond (2003): A 105.09-carat diamond underscoring the area’s rich potential.
Star of Kono (2002): A 95.50-carat diamond, marking one of the first major post-war discoveries.
Despite the wealth generated by these discoveries, Kono District remains significantly underdeveloped. The local community has voiced persistent concerns about the use of diamond revenue, with critical issues including:
Road Construction: Kono’s roads remain in poor condition, impeding economic growth and access to essential services. Despite calls for funding to build and maintain key roads, progress has been slow.
Education Funding: Promises to use diamond revenue for university fees and scholarships for students from Kono have largely fallen short. Many families continue to struggle with educational expenses, and the anticipated scholarships have not materialized as expected.
Other Developmental Projects: Essential projects such as healthcare, clean water access, and agricultural development, which were supposed to benefit from diamond revenue, have seen limited impact. These initiatives are crucial for improving living standards and fostering sustainable development in the district.
The disparity between Kono’s diamond wealth and its developmental status raises significant questions about transparency and accountability. The local population continues to demand clear answers regarding the management of diamond revenues and how these funds have been used to benefit the district’s infrastructure, education, and overall development.
As Kono continues to grapple with these challenges, ensuring transparent and accountable use of its diamond wealth remains essential for translating the district’s natural resources into tangible benefits for its people.
