Diamonds and Dependency: Sierra Leone's Struggle

This chapter delves into the harsh realities of artisanal diamond mining in Sierra Leone, focusing on the town of Khoidu where miners face difficult conditions to provide for their families. It highlights the broader economic dependency of many sub-Saharan African nations on commodity exports, examining the resulting political instability and challenges in diversifying economies. Through the lens of Sierra Leone’s diamond industry, the chapter underscores the missed opportunities for human investment and sustainable growth amidst the reliance on natural resource wealth.