In fulfillment of its statutory obligation Lithium Leone Afric Metals Mining Company has paid Two Billion Leones as surface rent to landowners of Ngowahun Chiefdom, Kabala, Bombali District, part of which should be utilized for undertaking certain development projects.
It must be noted that it is the first time in the history of the country that the Lithium mineral is being mined within the Bombali district
Lithium is widely used in batteries as a heater in a few mediums and as well as a component in various metal alloys. It is also used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, depression, and other mental health conditions due to its mood-stabilizing properties.
The new lithium mining company, according to Fassally Tarawallie, the Company’s Representative, is expected to create more job opportunities, capacity building training, educational and health support to residents and facilitate infrastructural development in that part of the country
He also emphasized that devoid of the surface rent payment the company will adhere to all community agreements for the benefit of both parties.
Residents of the chiefdom were exceptionally happy for the development as many of them are unemployed negatively impinging on their daily living hence the commencement of mining operations by the Leone Metal Afric company was a dream come true for them.
Paramount Chief Kandeh Gbanka 111 expressed willingness and determination to work with the investors on the basis that the community residents will benefit from the operations of the company.
Some Government officials, including the Minster of North East Abu Abu Abdulia Koroma and representatives from the National Minerals Agency, Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources Mines Committee in Parliament and Security Apparatus implored the community residents to take ownership of their development and protect the company for more sustainable development.
