Insight

• Infinity Media
• 5 Min Read

Sierra Leone’S Billionaires: The Top 10 Richest Men In Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, a resource-rich country on the west coast of Africa, has faced numerous socio-political and economic challenges over the years. However, it has also nurtured a generation of highly successful businesspeople and investors who have risen to prominence across various sectors—ranging from mining and agriculture to real estate, telecommunications, and sports. These individuals are not only symbols of personal financial success but also pillars of national development through employment creation, philanthropy, and economic contributions.

This article presents a detailed look at the top 10 richest men in Sierra Leone in 2025, highlighting their business ventures, estimated wealth, and national influence.

1. Hisham Mackie

Industry: Diamond Mining & Export
Estimated Net Worth: $350 million

Hisham Mackie is widely regarded as Sierra Leone’s wealthiest man. Born in 1969 in Freetown to a Lebanese-Sierra Leonean family deeply entrenched in the diamond industry, Hisham has expanded his family legacy into a modern diamond empire. As the founder and CEO of H.M. Diamond, his company handles a significant portion of the nation’s diamond exports. Under his leadership, the company adheres to international mining standards and practices ethical sourcing, helping restore Sierra Leone’s reputation in global markets. Beyond diamonds, Mackie is a notable philanthropist involved in education and healthcare development.

2. Jihad Basma

Industry: Diamonds & Precious Stones
Estimated Net Worth: $280 million

Jihad Basma inherited the family diamond empire from his late father, Kassim Basma, a legendary figure in Sierra Leone’s diamond history. Since assuming leadership, Jihad has not only maintained but expanded the Basma family's influence in the mining industry. His business ethos is rooted in transparency and sustainable mining. Apart from diamond trading, Basma is known for his involvement in local community development projects and charitable foundations, particularly in rural regions affected by post-war reconstruction.

3. Jamil Sahid Mohamed Khalil

Industry: Multi-sector (Diamonds, Aviation, Fisheries)
Estimated Net Worth: $250 million (at peak)

Although Jamil Sahid Mohamed Khalil passed away in 2000, his legacy continues to influence Sierra Leone’s economic landscape. Known as one of the most powerful businessmen during the 1970s and 80s, Jamil diversified his wealth through various industries including fisheries, construction, hotels, and aviation. His close ties with political leaders of the time made him a strategic power broker. Despite controversies, his contributions to infrastructure and job creation were significant during a transformative era in Sierra Leone.

4. Minkailu Mansaray

Industry: Insurance, Mining, Politics
Estimated Net Worth: $190 million

Minkailu Mansaray is a well-respected figure who seamlessly blends politics with business. He served as the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources and previously worked in the insurance sector. His connections in both public and private sectors have facilitated investments in mining ventures and consultancy services. As a businessman, Mansaray has invested in real estate and financial services, contributing to a diversified personal portfolio that continues to grow in value.

5. Mohamed Kallon

Industry: Sports, Real Estate, Mining
Estimated Net Worth: $160 million

Mohamed Kallon is arguably Sierra Leone’s most internationally recognized name. After enjoying a successful football career in Europe with clubs such as Inter Milan and AS Monaco, he reinvested his earnings into multiple business ventures back home. Kallon has invested in the mining sector, launched the Kallon Football Club, and built commercial real estate properties. He is also engaged in telecommunications and the hospitality industry. His success story is a testament to how talent and business savvy can go hand in hand.

6. Benjamin Kaifala

Industry: Diamond Mining
Estimated Net Worth: $150 million

Benjamin Kaifala is known for his keen understanding of Sierra Leone’s rich mineral landscape. As the head of a prominent diamond mining company, he has made substantial contributions to the country’s economy. He is lauded for promoting corporate social responsibility in mining, particularly through employment generation and local community investment. Kaifala is also seen as a future figure in national economic leadership.

7. Joseph Koroma

Industry: Real Estate & Construction
Estimated Net Worth: $130 million

Joseph Koroma is a leading entrepreneur in the real estate development sector. With commercial and residential projects across major cities like Freetown, Bo, and Kenema, Koroma’s developments have contributed significantly to Sierra Leone’s urbanization and modernization. He also engages in infrastructure construction and property management, offering employment opportunities to thousands. His focus on affordable housing is part of his broader vision for social impact.

8. Foday Bangura

Industry: Agriculture & Export
Estimated Net Worth: $110 million

Foday Bangura has tapped into the agricultural potential of Sierra Leone. Specializing in the export of cocoa, coffee, and palm oil, Bangura has built a vast agribusiness empire. His operations emphasize eco-friendly farming, fair wages for laborers, and the empowerment of rural farmers. With Sierra Leone seeking diversification away from minerals, Bangura’s work in agriculture is helping to reshape the country’s economic priorities.

9. Ali Hijazi

Industry: Tobacco, Sports, Logistics
Estimated Net Worth: $100 million

Ali Hijazi is a businessman and sports executive. As the exclusive agent of Philip Morris tobacco products in Sierra Leone, he controls a major portion of the national tobacco trade. Hijazi is also active in basketball development, serving as an administrator for local teams and youth leagues. He’s known for his extensive charitable work, particularly with war-affected communities, and supports vocational training programs for underprivileged youths.

10. Alie Koblo Queen Kabia II

Industry: Traditional Leadership, Land Investment
Estimated Net Worth: $90 million

Alie Koblo Queen Kabia II was the Paramount Chief of Marampa Chiefdom and one of the most influential traditional leaders in the country. Beyond his role in governance, he was involved in significant land deals and rural development programs. His estate and investment partnerships with foreign agricultural and mining firms have created sustainable economic models in his chiefdom. Even after his death, his legacy continues through family-run businesses and partnerships.

Summary Table: Richest Men in Sierra Leone (2025)

Final Thoughts

These ten individuals represent the pinnacle of financial success and influence in Sierra Leone. While their industries may differ, they share common qualities—vision, resilience, and commitment to national development. From urban real estate to rural agribusiness and the global diamond trade, their contributions are helping shape a more prosperous Sierra Leone.

As the country continues to emerge on the African economic scene, the examples set by these wealthy men will continue to inspire both current and future entrepreneurs to innovate, invest, and uplift their communities.