Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina: From the Depths of the Mines to the Pinnacle of Parliamentary Power
Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources – Deputy Leader II of Government Business in Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina embodies the exemplary rise of a man devoted to public service.
By Lokombe Nkalulu | July 2025 – Freetown, Sierra Leone
Editor-in-Chief, Afriqu’Europe Magazine
Born in the diamond-rich Kono District in Eastern Sierra Leone, Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina is a living testament to resilience, visionary leadership, and social progress. From humble beginnings as an artisanal mine worker, he has risen through sheer merit and dedication to become one of the most influential political figures in the country.
A Brilliant Academic Journey
Holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics (B.A.Ed) and two Master’s degrees in Social and Development Studies, Hon. Lamina is a specialist in Development Education, trained at Njala University. His academic excellence naturally led him to pursue a PhD in Environmental Development Studies at the same institution — a testament to his deep commitment to Sierra Leone’s sustainable future.
Educator, Manager, and Peacebuilder
Before stepping onto the national political stage, Lamina began his professional journey in academia, teaching at the Milton Margai College of Education & Technology (MMCET) and the Government Technical Institute (GTI) in Freetown. He later became Human Resources Manager for a local mining company in his home district, bringing discipline and a human touch to an often-contentious sector.
His public service extended beyond administration. In 2008, he was appointed Deputy Chief Administrator of the Kono District Council, while simultaneously offering voluntary academic support at various distance learning centers. He also played a key role in coordinating the Cause Canada Regional Peace Building Project, a cross-border initiative that integrated women and youth into peacebuilding and governance processes in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Côte d’Ivoire.
West Africa’s Youngest Mayor
A major milestone in his political career came on November 17, 2012, when he was democratically elected Mayor of Koidu, becoming the youngest mayor in West Africa. His tenure was marked by effective leadership and tangible development, earning him national recognition and widespread respect in Kono District.
A Parliamentary Leader with Regional Reach
Today, Hon. Lamina serves as the elected Member of Parliament for Cluster 030 in Kono, Deputy Leader II of Government Business, and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources. His expertise and principled leadership have made him a key figure in the strategic oversight of Sierra Leone’s mining sector.
His impact extends beyond national borders. A former representative to the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, he now serves as a member of the Sierra Leonean delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament and Vice Chairman of the ECOWAS Committee on Energy and Mines.
A Well-Deserved National Honour
In 2022, his outstanding contributions to public service were formally recognized when he was awarded the Order of the Rokel at the rank of Grand Commander (GCOR) — one of Sierra Leone’s highest national honours, reflecting both state and public appreciation of his tireless efforts.
A Grounded and Modern Family Man
Beyond his political achievements lies a devoted family man. Married to Mrs. Hannah Lamina, a proud southerner, the couple splits their time between Kono and Freetown, raising their children with the values of hard work, humility, and excellence.
