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The Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams, led a delegation to Tihun to address ongoing disputes between local communities and Eldorado Mining Company.
The visit aimed to resolve grievances related to compensation and raise awareness of the National Development Induced Resettlement (NDIR) Programme.
The delegation included officials from the National Minerals Agency (NMA), the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), and representatives from the NDIR Steering Committee.
Community leaders, including Paramount Chief Prince Lansana Wonie Bio, voiced concerns over the mining company’s practices, citing issues such as disrespect, environmental degradation, and inadequate compensation for crops and property.
Chief Bio stressed on the deteriorating relationship between Eldorado Mining Company and the community, pointing to grievances over underpayment and delays in compensation.
Development Secretary, Peter Sam-Kpakra responded by emphasizing the need for local employment and respect for community rights. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting communities and ensuring compliance with the NDIR Programme.
Deputy Minister Titus-Williams expressed the government’s dedication to the safety and livelihoods of local residents. He called on mining companies to prioritize hiring from affected communities and encouraged youth to take advantage of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres.
Assistant Director of the NDIR Directorate, Issa M’Briwa, provided a technical overview of the NDIR legal framework and community entitlements. He clarified the roles of stakeholders and the differences between legal obligations and corporate social responsibility.
Michael Anthony from the Ministry of Environment acknowledged water pollution complaints and pledged to ensure the provision of clean water. Habib Terry Kamara from the NMA assured prompt attention to surface rent issues.
Eldorado Mining Company’s Environmental and Safety Officer, Samu Massaquoi, confirmed regular environmental testing and the company’s commitment to providing clean drinking water.
Deputy General Manager Melvin Jackson admitted past mistakes and expressed a commitment to prioritize local hiring and address pending compensation payments.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Minister Titus-Williams thanked Eldorado Mining Company for acknowledging its responsibilities and urged the community to remain patient as efforts toward a sustainable resolution continue. The engagement concluded with assurances of follow-up actions to improve relations between the mining company and local communities.
