This snapshot taken on 22/04/2009, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.

Support to Ministry of Minerals in Sierra Leone

Freedom of Information Act 2000, request no. F2008/021

Date of release: 21 February 2008

Back to country programmes disclosures

Details of the DFID-sponsored consultant working with the Ministry of Minerals in Sierra Leone. What the consultants' mandate was, what legislative changes have taken place since their arrival, and to what extent British industries are benefiting from these changes. Which consultant / firm was awarded the contract, and a breakdown of costs.

To take the specific details you requested one-by-one:

1. The name of this project is ‘Support to the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Sierra Leone’ (Contract Number 200607489).

2. Adam Smith International (ASI) was awarded the contract.

3. The project has not brought in any legislative changes as yet because it is in an early stage of operation but the Law Reform Commission in Sierra Leone is working on an overhaul of mining laws.

4. We are not aware of any British companies having benefited from the programme so far since the consultancy is still in its early stages. However, the reform of the operations of the Ministry of Mineral Resources and improved transparency and efficiency of the sector should benefit all reputable mining companies interested in investing in Sierra Leone.

5. The total contract price is £1.1 million. The project is still at an early stage and there have been discussions about subsequent work but this has not been agreed at the time of writing.