By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown—The Government of Sierra Leone has officially denied claims by the Gento Group that it has acquired land rights to commence mining operations at the Tonkolili North – Kasafoni Iron Ore Deposit. I
In a statement, the government clarified that the deposit is exclusively controlled by the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC), a state-owned entity responsible for managing national mineral resources.
“The law is clear,” the government statement emphasized. “This deposit has been officially allocated to the Corporation by Cabinet and Parliament. No private company, individual, or traditional leader can lease, sell, or assign any rights over it.”
The government’s response follows public assertions by Gento Group, which recently stated that it had lawfully secured surface rights to the land. In a June 5, 2025 press release, the company described SLMMDMC’s public notice as defamatory and misleading, maintaining that its land lease agreements with local communities comply with Sierra Leone’s legal framework.
Legal Dispute Over Land Rights
According to Gento Group, securing a land lease agreement with the local chiefs and landowners of Sambaia, Dansogoia, and Diang Chiefdoms is a prerequisite for applying for a large-scale mining license under the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022. A letter submitted by the three Paramount Chiefs to the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources affirmed their support for Gento’s lease agreement.
“We, the custodians of the land, along with our people, have unanimously agreed to lease our land to Gento Group,” the chiefs stated.
However, SLMMDMC dismissed these claims as “without legal effect and completely null and void”, arguing that only the Corporation has the authority to manage or authorize mining activities at Kasafoni. Officials also warned that any unauthorized attempts to claim, lease, or operate in the area may lead to legal consequences.
Calls for Dialogue and Investor Confidence
The Gento Group condemned SLMMDMC for publicly discrediting its legal standing without prior consultation, labeling the move as unprofessional and disruptive to private-sector involvement in Sierra Leone’s extractive industry.
“At no point did SLMMDMC attempt to address overlapping claims or disputes through dialogue or due process,” the company asserted, urging SLMMDMC to retract its notice to restore investor confidence.
Despite ongoing disputes, Gento Group stated its commitment to lawful mining operations, acknowledging that while it has not yet obtained a large-scale mining license, it remains open to partnerships that respect its land lease agreement.
“We remain confident in the rule of law and the support of genuine stakeholders dedicated to integrity, development, and private-sector-led growth in Sierra Leone,” the company reiterated.
The legal battle over Kasafoni’s iron ore reserves is expected to continue, as stakeholders seek clarity on land rights and mineral management.