Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has a long history of resource exploitation, including diamonds, gold and bauxite. Diamond mining, in particular, has been a significant industry in Sierra Leone since the 1930s. Diamond deposits were discovered in the eastern region of the country, leading to the establishment of mining operations and the eventual formation of the Sierra Leone Selection Trust (SLST) in the 1950s. The SLST operated the Koidu mine and was the largest diamond mining company in the country until the 1970s. 

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Due to various political and economic factors, including civil war, mismanagement, and corruption, Sierra Leone's mining industry experienced a significant decline in the 1980s and 1990s. However, in recent years, renewed attention has been paid to Sierra Leone's mineral resources, particularly diamonds and gold. The government has implemented policies to attract foreign investment and improve infrastructure, leading to increased exploration and mining activity. In 2019, mineral exports were valued at over $200 million, highlighting the potential for Sierra Leone's mining industry to contribute to the country's economic development.