Africa's Mining Industries and China's Involvement: Sierra Leone as a Case Study

The African mining industry is increasingly embracing cleaner production (CP), all be it at a slow pace. This paper investigates how the involvement of China is coming to an increasing rate, by means of involvement in the gold mining sector, diamond mining sector and the likes assisting towards sustainable developments. Mining and sustainable development are not contradictory terms. This paper will examine how the sustainable development principles are applicable within the mining industry. The future of the extractive industry is inseparable from the global pursuit of sustainable development. The mining industry is contributing to sustained growth and prosperity of current and future generations through the integration of economic progress, responsible social development and effective environmental management. Sierra Leone is particularly rich in mineral resources and is one of the leading raw material exporters in the world. Sierra Leone on the other hand, is a water scarce country with mining activities often located in areas with limited water resources. The main challenges faced by the mining industry include proper water and electricity management among others. The implementation of cleaner technologies could be a solution to these challenges. Environmental management accounting and sustainability reporting are tools available to assist the mining industry to successfully achieve sustainable development