Should the U.S Ambassador be involved in our minerals discussions with investors and the government?

By Alpha Joh Bah

Why is the United States of America Ambassador involved in our minerals discussions with investors and the government? There’s a takeover bid of this mining company that mines Rutile in Sierra Leone.

“Rutile is primarily used as a pigment. It is sized and processed to create a bright white powder that is the primary source of white colouring in everyday products such as paint and toothpaste. Titanium dioxide minerals are a crucial component in various industrial applications, with approximately 90% of the global production utilised as a pigment in the manufacturing of paint, plastic, paper, and fibre” (Company website).

I’m appalled at the government in Freetown and how they govern the nation. They boast of having a youthful cabinet, but they seem disconnected from the broader aspiration of the continent’s youths. This era eclipsed the agitation for self-determination and the complete overthrow of neo-colonialism. Still, it seems they are off the topic and encouraging Americans’ involvement in our purely sovereign activities. I understand that they are development partners, but to be involved with our minerals rekindles the ongoing economic subjugation of our continent, and it sends a bad feeling.

#SaloneX #SaloneTwitter

@SierraRutileLtd

Vickie Remoe

@VickieRemoe

I know our embassies overseas don’t do nothin for us but other countries are keen on protecting their nationals and their interests. An American ambassador speaking on an American-owned company in their jurisdiction is not out of order. The Ambassador is a US govt employee paid by taxes but Americans and American businesses. He doing his job.

malcolm x

@kargbo_umarr

I share your thoughts, but also, be notified that diplomatic immunity and the shadow of our own democracy is deeply rooted in “behind the scenes interference” a youthful cabinet with aspirations of using the USA as cover for their families cannot call out such.

Hadi Bah

@hadiba

The Gerald Group, which Craig Dean is CEO of, is an American company. The US ambassador is simply doing his job.

Alpha Bah

@AlphajorbaBah

By interfering with our mining arrangement? I don’t blame him; I do blame our politicians who are ready to auction our minerals to foreign powers, not for the benefit of our nation but for political protection and to protect their corrupt activities.