Gold Export & Mining in Sierra Leone – Legal & Compliance Advisory

By ClintonOur Publications

Why Sierra Leone?

Sierra Leone is a resource-rich West African nation with a long history of gold and diamond production. Its mining sector is governed by the Mines and Minerals Act, 2009 (as amended), overseen by the National Minerals Agency (NMA).

With rising global demand for responsibly sourced gold, Sierra Leone is increasingly attractive to investors and buyers — but it is also a high-risk jurisdiction where compliance, licensing, and due diligence are non-negotiable.

Legal Framework for Gold Export

Clinton Consultancy provides clients with step-by-step guidance to navigate Sierra Leone’s mining and export regime:

  • Licensing Requirements

    • Export of gold requires a license issued by the National Minerals Agency.

    • Sellers must be registered exporters, with verified concession or dealer rights.

    • All shipments must be certified by the Government Gold & Diamond Office (GGDO) before export.

  • Ownership & Transfer

    • Change of ownership is not recognised through informal contracts or court orders.

    • Ownership must be demonstrated through verified dealer/export licenses and GGDO certification.

    • We assist buyers in confirming chain of custody before funds are committed.

  • Export Compliance

    • The GGDO assays and values all gold for official certification.

    • Export permits are required for every shipment.

    • Only licensed exporters with valid NMA authorization can legally ship gold out of Sierra Leone.

Risks & How We Protect You

Sierra Leone’s mineral sector has historically been vulnerable to fraud, smuggling, and informal intermediaries. We protect our clients by:

  • Conducting due diligence on sellers, exporters, and concessions.

  • Verifying licenses with the NMA and GGDO.

  • Drafting and reviewing airtight gold sales contracts with enforceable terms.

  • Structuring escrow and fund protection mechanisms for cross-border buyers.

  • Providing litigation and dispute resolution support if required.

Why Work With Clinton Consultancy?

  • Local & regional expertise: Sierra Leone is one of our firm’s key jurisdictions, with direct knowledge of its mining laws and regulatory framework.

  • Cross-border track record: We have advised U.S., European, Middle Eastern, and Asian clients on gold deals in Sierra Leone.

  • Dual presence: With roots in Sierra Leone and a strong base in Ghana, we provide a pan-African gold compliance platform.

  • Proven authority: Led by Amanda Clinton — a barrister with experience before international and regional tribunals, and a regular commentator on African legal matters on BBC, CNN Africa, and Joy News.

Our Services in Sierra Leone

  • Export licensing advisory (NMA, GGDO).

  • Seller and concession verification.

  • Drafting & negotiation of gold sales agreements.

  • Compliance and escrow structuring.

  • Cross-border legal structuring for international buyers.

  • Dispute resolution & recovery services.

Next Steps

If you are considering a gold transaction in Sierra Leone, Clinton Consultancy ensures your deal is structured in full compliance with the law, with your investment protected every step of the way.

? +233 27 252 2695
? amanda@clintonconsultancy.com