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Employees of Sierra Diamonds Limited, operating in the Tongo Fields of Lower Bambara chiefdom, are urgently calling on the Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security to intervene in a crisis involving months of unpaid salaries, leave allowances, and medical benefits.
In a letter addressed to Minister Mohamed Rahman Swaray, the workers expressed their frustration and desperation, highlighting a commitment made by the Minister during a visit to the company on January 24th, 2025. Despite assurances of prompt action, employees report they have yet to receive their owed payments, spanning eight to nine months.
The situation has escalated dramatically due to a looming court-ordered deadline. The High Court of Sierra Leone has set March 8th, 2025, as the date for Sierra Diamonds Limited to settle a debt with a supplier. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the seizure and auction of the company’s assets, as evidenced by court documents shared by the workers.
“This situation puts not only our livelihoods at risk but also the stability of the company itself, and the security of the chiefdom will be seriously tested,” the employees stated in their letter. They emphasized the urgency of the matter, pleading for immediate action to prevent further consequences.
The workers are demanding an urgent update on the expected payment schedule, highlighting that time is running out. They have also copied the Local Unit Commander of Tongo Division, the Paramount Chief, and the Lower Bambara Descendants Association on their plea, signaling the widespread concern within the community.
The employees’ letter, which includes photographic evidence of the High Court order, was shared via social media, further amplifying their call for intervention. The dire circumstances faced by the workers underscore the potential for significant economic and social disruption in the region if the situation is not resolved promptly.
The Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security has yet to issue an official response. The community now awaits swift action to avert a potential crisis.
