By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS) has on Thursday March 13, 2025 expressed its disappointment over a unilateral statement issued by the management of Koidu Limited while negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing industrial action are still in progress.
In a public notice titled: ‘Impasse Between The Management Of Koidu Limited And General Workforce – The Way Forward,’ the Ministry criticized Koidu Limited’s leadership for making public pronouncements that could undermine efforts to de-escalate tensions and find an amicable solution to the dispute.
According to the Ministry, it had proactively engaged in various efforts to prevent the industrial action due to its potential negative impact on the company and the broader economy. A proposed roadmap was presented to Koidu Limited’s Management, leading to the commencement of online negotiations with the Board of Directors on March 6, 2025.
Both parties initially expressed optimism in resolving the dispute and restoring a constructive working relationship. However, the Ministry noted that while discussions were making progress, Koidu Limited’s Management issued statements that could derail the negotiations through veiled threats and intimidation.
MELSS also refuted Koidu Limited’s persistent characterization of the strike as illegal. The Ministry clarified that the company had allegedly compromised the workers’ union to such an extent that its leadership failed to represent employee grievances, leading to widespread dissatisfaction. As a result, workers withdrew their membership from the union, a move that Koidu Limited attempted to obstruct until recent developments forced recognition of the employees’ decision.
Despite these challenges, the Ministry reiterated its commitment to resolving the impasse and called on Koidu Limited to allow the negotiation process to proceed without interference. The Ministry warned that statements issued by the company’s leadership could erode the progress made and prolong the unrest.
It could be recalled that prior to the Labour Ministry’s public statement, Koidu Limited during a public address at the Koidu Diamond Mine on March 12, 2025, had maintained that the safety and well-being of its employees and the surrounding community remained its top priority. The company emphasized its commitment to legal compliance and constructive dialogue to resolve the ongoing grievances.
Koidu Limited stated that it operates under a strict zero-tolerance policy towards violence, intimidation or incitement. The company acknowledged the Government of Sierra Leone’s (GoSL) support, including assistance from security forces, to ensure order and a safe working environment.
The company pointed out that the ongoing strike, which it deemed illegal under Sections 64 and 67 of the Industrial Relations and Trade Union Act 2023, was primarily related to wage concerns, the reinstatement of dismissed workers and overall working conditions. While expressing a willingness to negotiate, Koidu Limited insisted that discussions could only take place if workers immediately returned to their duties.
Koidu Limited further warned that continued disruptions could lead to the withdrawal of staff from the mine, potentially resulting in a full shutdown of operations. Such an outcome, the company cautioned, would pose a severe threat to the mine’s future viability.
The company disclosed that it had engaged various Government stakeholders, including the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, the Minister of Mines, the National Minerals Agency, the Chief Minister and President Julius Maada Bio, in efforts to resolve the impasse.
As part of its proposed resolution, Koidu Limited stated that it had introduced initiatives such as a workforce salary review, a quarterly diamond price-based bonus scheme and other incentive programs, which would be implemented upon reaching a mutual agreement.
Addressing allegations of misconduct, Koidu Limited firmly denied claims of corruption or dishonest practices, stressing that all diamond extractions are conducted under full Government supervision and in compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
Looking ahead, Koidu Limited affirmed its commitment to the long-term sustainability of the mine and the broader hard rock diamond industry in Sierra Leone. The company announced plans to strengthen collaboration with key Government officials, local stakeholders and regional partners to ensure continued operations and address workers’ concerns through lawful and structured engagement.
As negotiations continue, both the Ministry and Koidu Limited remain under close public scrutiny, with stakeholders hoping for a resolution that balances industrial harmony with economic sustainability.
