Freetown, 12th May, 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a landmark achievement, securing an unprecedented USD 26,225,000 in financial guarantees from 11 mining companies to fund mine rehabilitation and environmental restoration.
EPA Executive Chairman Abu‑Bakar S. Massaquoi described the move as the largest amount ever secured by the agency, calling it “a strong step towards responsible mining and greater protection for our land, rivers, forests, and communities.”
The guarantees are designed to ensure that mined‑out areas are restored, environmental damage is addressed, and local communities are not left to bear the long‑term impacts of unsustainable practices. Companies that meet the required standards will receive Environmental Compliance Assurance Certificates, while mine valuations for other operators will continue to enforce full compliance across the sector.
Massaquoi commended compliant companies and urged all mining operators to follow suit, stressing that the EPA remains committed to strengthening enforcement, protecting the environment, and building a more sustainable mining industry in Sierra Leone.
This milestone underscores Sierra Leone’s determination to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, ensuring that mining contributes to national development without sacrificing ecological integrity.
