The political economy of natural resource extraction in Sierra Leone is a critical area of study within African Studies, particularly given its central location in Africa's economic geography. No empirical results are presented; instead, a critical review of existing literature is employed to explore themes such as corruption, infrastructure development, and social welfare programmes associated with natural resource extraction. The analysis underscores the need for more transparent governance practices and robust social protection mechanisms to mitigate negative impacts on local populations. Policy recommendations include strengthening anti-corruption measures, enhancing transparency in revenue allocation, and fostering inclusive development frameworks that prioritise community welfare.