Paramount Chiefs and community leaders from Sambaia, Dansogoia and Deing Chiefdoms in Tonkolili District have formally pledged their exclusive support to the Gento Group of Companies through a landmark land lease agreement, marking a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s shift toward local empowerment in the mining sector.
The chiefs, acting as custodians of the land and representatives of local landowners, have officially notified the Ministry of Mines of their commitment to partner solely with the Gento Group for mining operations in the Kasafoni area. The agreement, which has been lauded as a historic decision, reflects growing calls for responsible partnerships that prioritize the needs and welfare of host communities.
In their joint letter to the Ministry, the Paramount Chiefs wrote, “We, the three Paramount Chiefs, hereby write to notify your Ministry that we have signed a land lease agreement with the Gento Group of Companies for land situated in and around the Kasafoni area.” They stressed that their decision is grounded in mutual respect, lawful engagement and a shared vision for sustainable community development under the Mines and Mineral Development Act.
Speaking at a recent gathering, Paramount Chief Alimamy Bockarie Yalan Koroma III of Dansogoia Chiefdom underscored the significance of the agreement. “This is the first time we see a Sierra Leonean taking over the mines. Over the years, we have had foreigners managing our mineral wealth. We are ready to give him our greatest support,” he declared, noting the unique opportunity to finally involve local actors in a sector long dominated by foreign interests.
The partnership with Gento Group, a leading Sierra Leonean-owned company, was widely described as a turning point in local ownership and community-centered development. The chiefs emphasized that their people, especially women and youth, have a right to determine who operates on their land and to expect real benefits from such arrangements.
“Gento Group will bring more jobs and opportunities to our people and community,” Paramount Chief Alimamy Bockarie Yalan Koroma III affirmed. His sentiments were echoed by Hon. PC Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III of Sambaia Chiefdom, who also serves as a Member of Parliament. He drew a clear contrast between past foreign mining engagements and the renewed hope this local partnership brings. “They have not realized anything from the company despite the promises made. With Gento Group, they are happy to have a surface lease agreement payment,” he said.
The chiefs recalled earlier disappointments with foreign operators, referencing unfulfilled promises and minimal returns to the local populace, as seen in areas like the Kono District under companies such as Kingho Mining. In response to these past shortcomings, the current agreement with Gento is being hailed as a community-driven model rooted in trust, accountability and real development outcomes.
The chiefs also reaffirmed their understanding of Sierra Leone’s mining laws, stating that a surface lease agreement is a mandatory prerequisite for any company intending to conduct mining activities. With that legal obligation fulfilled, they made clear their exclusive endorsement of Gento Group as the sole authorized entity for the Kasafoni area.
Further reinforcing their position, the Paramount Chiefs declared that no other company will be entertained for mining negotiations on the designated land. All prospective investors, they insisted, must channel their interest through Gento Group. This move consolidates the company’s operational rights and reflects the community’s unified stance.
The chiefs’ declaration also aligns with the Government’s broader policy direction under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, who has emphasized that no mining license will be issued without the full consent of host communities. During engagements on the matter, President Bio reiterated the necessity of land lease agreements and community participation in all extractive operations.
Hon. PC Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III concluded with a strong endorsement, stating, “President Julius Maada Bio should know that Mohamed Gento Kamara is the solution to our problems.” His words captured the growing confidence in the ability of Sierra Leonean companies to drive inclusive economic growth.
With the land lease agreement firmly signed and collective support assured, the chiefs of Sambaia, Dansogoia and Deing Chiefdoms expressed optimism about a new era of mining—one that promises job creation, fair resource management and tangible benefits for their people. Their support for the Gento Group of Companies stands as a defining chapter in Sierra Leone’s evolving mining narrative, where local leadership takes center stage in shaping the country’s future.
