The Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), Ing. Hadji Dabo, has urged newly recruited engineers and geologists to prove their competence and justify the trust placed in them.
He made the call during the opening of a four-day training workshop on Environmental Management in Mining. The training was organised by the NMA in partnership with the International Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF). It was held at the Country Lodge Conference Hall, Hill Station in Freetown, under the theme “Transforming the Minerals Sector for a Better Sierra Leone.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Dabo said the recruitment of the new staff is not only a reward for their achievements but also a key step in strengthening mining governance in the country.
He encouraged participants to take the training seriously, stressing that the knowledge they gain will shape their professional careers and comes with responsibility.
The NMA boss also highlighted that the training is supported by international partners, including the Government of Canada, and led by expert facilitators from IGF. He warned participants against being passive, noting that the workshop is not just about getting certificates but about building real skills.
Mr. Dabo further stressed the important role environmental officers play in protecting communities affected by mining. He said their work will directly impact people living near mining areas, including farmers and those relying on nearby water sources.
He urged participants to actively engage, ask questions, and fully take part in discussions throughout the training.
The workshop is expected to strengthen the capacity of NMA staff in environmental monitoring and support efforts to build a more responsible and sustainable mining sector in Sierra Leone.
