By Sallieu S. Kanu
Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone — June 2025: Paramount Chiefs and local stakeholders from Sambaia, Dansogoia, and Deing Chiefdoms in the Tonkolili District have formally expressed their support for the Gento Group of Companies, rejecting foreign mining firms that they say have historically failed to deliver substantial benefits to local communities.
During recent meetings, the chiefs voiced concerns about past mining concessions granted to foreign entities, emphasizing that such agreements had not translated into meaningful development for local residents.
Commitment to Local Partnerships
Paramount Chief Alimamy Bockarie Yalan Koroma III of Dansogoia Chiefdom declared, “We do not want business as usual.” He emphasized that Gento Group has strictly adhered to Sierra Leone’s Mines and Minerals Act, securing a fifty-year land lease agreement with local authorities for the Kasafoni Mining Concession Area, with 50% of payment already made.
The chiefs affirmed that any future mining investments in the region must go through Gento Group, reinforcing their stand against foreign dominance in the industry.
Concerns Over Foreign Companies
Citing previous experiences with African Minerals Limited and Sierra Rutile Limited, the chiefs reflected on a time when Sierra Leonean leadership played a more integral role in mining operations. They argued that foreign investors had reaped most of the benefits, leaving local communities with little tangible development.
Hon. PC Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III, a member of parliament from Tonkolili District, noted, “The people are now fully aware of the possibilities of local investment. They have not realized anything from previous foreign companies despite the promises made.”
Government Urged to Uphold Local Agreements
The chiefs called on President Julius Maada Bio’s administration to ensure that mining licenses align with established land lease agreements, thereby giving local leaders greater negotiating power.
Chief Jalloh emphasized that Mohamed Gento Kamara and his company represent a solution to Sierra Leone’s mining challenges, advocating for policies that prioritize local engagement, job creation, and infrastructure development.
A Transformative Moment in Sierra Leone’s Mining Sector
The firm stance of the Paramount Chiefs signals a turning point in resource management, reflecting a broader push toward local empowerment and sustainable development.
As the partnership between the Gento Group and the chiefdoms progresses, stakeholders express hope that community interests will remain at the forefront, ensuring responsible and equitable mining practices for the benefit of all.