Sierra Leone
11/07/2001

RI visited Kono District where locals and ex-combatants continuing to mine for the infamous Sierra Leonean diamonds. Although diamond mining is supposed to be under the control of the Sierra Leonean Government, the authorities have only recently begun to move out into this newly-disarmed district. Regaining control over the mining will prove to be a highly volatile task, as most Sierra Leoenans out in Kono District have no other income-generation opportunities. While all economic-generating activities would be helpful for the destroyed district, it will be extremely difficult to lure people away from the hope of finding a diamond that will take them out of their poverty.