Human Rights Commission Investigates Labor Dispute at Koidu Limited

The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), in collaboration with the Kono District Human Rights Committee (KDHRC), has conducted a fact-finding mission to investigate a growing labor dispute between Koidu Limited Mining Company and its employees.

The investigation aimed to gather firsthand information from key stakeholders regarding the ongoing standoff. The HRCSL, mandated to protect and promote human rights, sought to assess potential human rights violations and facilitate a resolution to the conflict.

The delegation, led by HRCSL Chairperson Patricia Narsu Ndanema, held meetings with various parties, including: Senior Section Chief of Tankoro Chiefdom, Sahr Mboma, Members of the Kono District Human Rights Committee, Executive members of the aggrieved Workers Union, The Sierra Leone Police, Chairman of the Council of Paramount Chiefs in Kono, Edward Sahr Mbawa and Senior Management of Koidu Limited Mining Company.

Sulaiman Mansaray, Secretary General of the Workers Union, presented a series of grievances, alleging: Lack of risk allowances for mine workers, Discriminatory practices related to access to clean water and sanitation, Unlawful dismissals without due process, Non-payment of overtime and Fraudulent salary structures.

Mansaray stated that these issues prompted the workers to initiate a work stoppage until their demands were addressed.

In response, Koidu Limited General Manager Rocco Vermuelen refuted several of the workers’ allegations. He attributed the strained relationship to the recent election of a new union executive and their subsequent withdrawal from the United Mine Workers Union (UMU). Vermuelen also mentioned interventions by the First Lady and ongoing discussions between the company’s board and the Minister of Labour, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, to find a resolution.

However, Vermuelen highlighted that the company has taken steps to address some concerns, including the procurement of mobile toilets to improve sanitation. He welcomed the HRCSL and KDHRC investigation, expressing hope for a lasting solution.

The HRCSL investigation team included Director of Business and Human Rights and Labour Relations Abdulai Yollah Bangura, Director of Human Resources Peter Abraham Koroma, Senior Human Rights Officer Ibrahim Tarawallie, and Human Rights Officer Elvis Mambu (East Regional Office Branch). The HRCSL will produce a written report detailing its findings and recommendations.