After a series of interviews with a team of senior investigative journalists in Koidu Town, Kono District, Koidu Mining Limited, one of the largest mining companies in the region has been accused of engaging in intensive underground mining for years.
Aminata Bangura, a resident of Fullah Town in Kono, explained that the company has been operating in their community for over 15 years, but the locals have not benefited from its presence.
“Previously, when the company wanted to conduct blasting, they would temporarily relocate us a few meters away from our houses. That was when we began hearing loud and heavy sounds coming from underground, which often caused cracks in the walls of our homes,” she recounted.
She added that the company has since stopped blasting and shifted to underground mining. The residents were informed that all houses in the mining area are at risk due to on-going underground operations.
“The company has not honored its agreement with us. We have not benefited from any promises made. The Paramount Chief supports the mining company, and whatever the company says becomes final,” Bangura claimed.
She also lamented the pollution of local water streams, making access to clean water and the removal of their small agricultural farms poses a significant challenge for residents.
“My husband opposed the Paramount Chief’s decision to sign the Community Development Agreement (CDA) because he knew the company wouldn’t fulfil its promises. This stress contributed to his death. Now, I am left alone with my children and have no land for farming. I survive by selling herbal medicine to feed my family,” she explained.
Sahr Jusu Sumanah, another resident from the new settlement in Koidu Town, revealed that the company has relocated four towns: Sogogbeh, Swarray, Fullah, and Saquie Towns.
“I am from Saquie Town. Our entire family was relocated, but we only received a small amount of money as compensation for our farms, which was far below our expectations,” he said.
Sumanah, who relies on small-scale farming to support his family, expressed frustration over the company’s operations, which have displaced farmers without providing sustainable alternatives.
He added, “most of the Community Development Agreements signed by the company and community authorities have not been implemented. We lack water facilities, good roads, and electricity. The situation speaks for itself.”
He called for government intervention to address the issues, particularly the lack of job opportunities for the youth in the community.
In response, Ibrahim Turay, the Corporate Affairs Manager for Koidu Mining Limited, dismissed the accusations of underground mining, stating that the company conducts straight mining, not underground operations.
Turay explained that the company has conducted an Environmental International Standard Assessment and relocated not only residents but also a Police Station and Schools.
“We have compensated all three communities affected by relocation, including those with small agricultural farms,” he said.
He emphasized that the company has replaced mud houses to cement houses, which are more durable.
Turay also highlighted the company’s contributions to the community, such as providing fuel for police operations, supporting government school buses, and maintaining roads in the town.
“The company adhere to its Corporate Social Responsibility, but as we all know, it is not compulsory as the company do it as the need arises,” Turay added.
