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Tongo Diamond Mine

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Industrial site
—°1
Tongo Diamond Mine (Sierra Leone)

Weather…

The Tongo Diamond Mine, located in eastern Sierra Leone, is a significant mining operation focusing on the extraction of high-quality diamonds from kimberlite dykes. Situated within the Kenema District, the area has a long history of alluvial mining, but recent industrial efforts have shifted toward primary deposits. The mine is currently being developed by Newfield Resources Limited under the Tongo-Tonguma project, which targets a substantial resource base with a projected mine life of over 15 years. Implementation involves modern open-workings and the development of underground declines to access high-grade kimberlite ore. The project is seen as a vital driver for regional economic growth, introducing advanced diamond recovery technology to the area. All operations at Tongo strictly adhere to international standards, including the Kimberley Process, ensuring that the gemstones produced are conflict-free and ethically sourced.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262829292826242425252625
Rain mm171645116298401457355177527

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Tongo Diamond Mine is a prominent mining site in eastern Sierra Leone, extracting both industrial and gem-quality diamonds. It plays a significant role in the country's diamond exports and local employment.
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Visiting
The mine is a secure industrial site and not open to the public for safety and security reasons. Visitors can only view the surrounding area from public roads, with restricted access to the mining zone.
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Where to view it
The best viewpoints are from the road passing through the Tongo region, where the mining operations and tailings can be seen in the distance. Elevated areas in the surrounding hills offer broader panoramas of the mining landscape.
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Local products
Diamonds are the primary product, but they are not sold locally in raw form. Visitors may encounter artisanal mining activities and small-scale trading in nearby towns like Tongo itself.
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Active season
Mining activities continue throughout the year, with peak operations during the dry season (November to April) when access roads are more passable. The wet season (May-October) can slow operations.
Nearby
Combine a visit to Tongo Diamond Mine with the nearby Kono district's other diamond mining areas and the Moa River. The town of Koidu (Sefadu) provides accommodations and further insights into the diamond trade.

Geography

Coordinates
8.22000, -11.05000

Facts

  • The Tongo-Tonguma project covers eleven identified kimberlite dykes.
  • Newfield Resources Limited is the lead developer of the current project.
  • The projected mine life for the Tongo operations exceeds 15 years.
  • Tongo diamonds are known for their high average value per carat.
  • The total diamond resource is estimated at over 7 million carats.
  • The facility employs advanced optical sorting technology for diamond recovery.

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Sights in the town Tongo Diamond Mine (1)

Lower Bambara Chiefdom📍 landmark

Lower Bambara Chiefdom is a traditional administrative area in Kenema District, Sierra Leone. It includes the Tongo diamond mine.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the Tongo diamond mine?
No, it is a closed industrial mining zone.
What is mined in Tongo?
High-quality kimberlite diamonds are mainly mined here.
How do you reach this region?
Mostly via very long, unpaved roads from the inland.
Is the region developed for tourism?
No, any tourist infrastructure and accommodation are lacking.
Is there medical care there?
Very limited, a personal medical kit is strongly recommended.
Tongo Diamond Mine: where is it located?
Tongo Diamond Mine is located in Sierra Leone.
Tongo Diamond Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Tongo Diamond Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Tongo Diamond Mine, located in eastern Sierra Leone, is a significant mining operation focusing on the extraction of high-quality diamonds from kimberlite dykes.
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