The governments of Sierra Leone and Liberia continue to make use of RDF systems to further modernize how mineral resources are tracked, licensed, and managed. To that end, in 2024, a German Cooperation (GIZ) funded digital traceability initiative was launched to bring greater transparency, efficiency, and accountability to the artisanal mining sector.
In both countries, RDF is supporting the implementation of new tools and systems to help authorities manage mineral rights, license renewals, and export processes with greater precision. One key advancement is the introduction of the Valuations module to allow the Office of Precious Minerals to process shipments within the MCAS system. The MCAS system is currently in use within the Cadastre office and expanding it to capture the shipment process enhances data sharing between government entities. In turn, this improves transparency, efficiency, and collaboration across government.
Utilizing the valuations module enables the government to record every shipment sent out under the dealer/broker license. The system also allows for automatic calculation of royalties and other fees associated with the shipment, while doing away with time-consuming manual processes. In addition, all receipts, invoices and letters can now be auto generated using the system, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of human error.
For the next major step in the project, RDF is building a digital chain of custody systems for gold and diamonds. This system tracks the movement of minerals from the mining site to the point of export, creating a verifiable record that supports ethical sourcing and compliance with international standards like the Kimberley Process. By working closely with national agencies and local offices, RDF is tailoring these systems to reflect how the mineral trade actually operates on the ground.
Throughout the project, RDF has collaborated with key partners like the National Minerals Agency (NMA), the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), and the Precious Minerals Trading (PMT) office in Sierra Leone, as well as the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) and the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) in Liberia. This cooperation ensures that digital systems are aligned with national priorities and user needs.
These efforts reflect RDF’s ongoing commitment to open, accountable, and technology-driven resource governance. As the project continues into 2025, RDF remains focused on delivering tools that empower governments, protect natural resources, and ensure that the benefits of mining reach the wider public.
