Koidu Holdings Limited has announced the immediate suspension of its operations, citing unresolved industrial disputes and safety concerns.
In a formal letter addressed to the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, the company stated that persistent illegal industrial actions have made it impossible to continue operations, forcing them into a “care and maintenance” phase.
According to the letter, the on-going strike contravenes the Industrial Relations and Trade Union Act, 2024, which outlines specific requirements for lawful industrial action, including formal notice and other procedural steps. The company claims that employees and union representatives failed to comply with these legal provisions, rendering their actions unlawful.
Further reports indicate that employees willing to return to work are being subjected to intimidation and threats, creating an unsafe working environment. The company cited the Employment Act, 2023, which mandates employers to ensure workplace safety-a standard they say has become unattainable due to the on-going disruptions.
Despite multiple attempts to resolve the matter through the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, the dispute remains unresolved. Koidu Holdings expressed frustration over what it described as a lack of decisive action from the ministry in addressing the violations of employment regulations. Additionally, the company raised concerns about external political interference, specifically alleging that First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has been encouraging workers not to return to their duties.
“In light of these extreme disruptions and external interference, we have opted for a transition to care and maintenance as a more prudent course of action,” the letter stated.
Under the Mines and Minerals Development Act, 2022, license holders are permitted to suspend production under emergency circumstances. The company insists that the current situation meets these criteria. Koidu Holdings has called for urgent intervention from the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources to restore compliance with statutory provisions and create conditions for the lawful resumption of operations.
The company assured authorities of its willingness to engage constructively with all relevant stakeholders to find a resolution.
