By Ibrahim Sesay
Senior officials from the National Minerals Agency (NMA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Friday December 13, 2024 visited illegal mining sites in Diang Chiefdom, Koinadugu District, to investigate unauthorized mining activities, particularly those affecting the protected Lake Sonfon.
The visit followed reports circulating on social media alleging that community members, financiers and foreign nationals were involved in unregulated mining operations. The objective of the visit was to assess the extent of the illegal mining and demonstrate the Government’s commitment to environmental protection and resource management.
Isaac Kallon, NMA’s Regional Manager for Makeni, confirmed the illegality of the operations, stating that mining in Lake Sonfon is explicitly prohibited. “We’ve observed illegal activities, including mining within the lake, which is entirely unauthorized. This is not a new issue. We’ve raised concerns and conducted compliance audits, but we face limitations,” the Regional Manager remarked.
He assured that the NMA would compile its findings and escalate the matter to higher authorities for necessary action. Isaac Kallon’s statement underscores the Government’s resolve to confront illicit mining practices that threaten environmental sustainability and lawful resource management.
Abdul Kebbie, Regional Environmental Officer for the EPA, highlighted the environmental and economic consequences of illegal mining in the area. “No licenses have been issued for these activities, and as a result, the government is losing significant revenue,” Abdul Kebbie stated.
He emphasized that illegal mining operations leave behind open pits, contribute to biodiversity loss, cause deforestation and pose health risks due to the absence of safety measures. “The EPA Act requires all mining projects to undergo environmental screening before licenses are issued. This ensures sustainability and minimizes risks,” Abdul Kebbie added.
He also addressed allegations that military personnel assigned to protect the area were engaging in illegal mining. “The community accuses the military of mining at night instead of protecting the area. These allegations undermine trust and further complicate the situation,” he noted, signaling the need for thorough investigations into the claims.
The fact-finding mission also uncovered an illegal gold mining site in Foriah. Foday Bah Turay, Section Chief of Diang Chiefdom, provided context on the situation in Foriah. “Last week, there were rumors of gold at a specific site, leading to fights among people trying to claim mining spaces. I was alerted by Resident Minister North, Abu Abu, who advised seeking security protection to prevent further chaos,” Foday Bah Turay explained.
He called on the Government to intervene and bring the situation under control for the benefit of the community and all stakeholders involved.
The authorities are expected to present a detailed report of their findings and recommendations to the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources for immediate action. This intervention is seen as a crucial step in addressing unauthorized mining activities and ensuring compliance with Sierra Leone’s environmental protection and mineral resource management laws.
