The Catastrophic Consequences for Kono District’s Future
By Andrew Tamba Gbandeh-Mitta
This paper critically examines the environmental, social, and economic impacts of underground mining in Kono District, Sierra Leone, focusing on the activities of Koidu Holdings, a subsidiary of OCTÉA Limited. The research reveals devastating consequences, including environmental degradation, community displacement, and increased poverty levels.
Kono District has experienced a surge in underground mining activities in recent years, driven by the demand for diamonds, gold, and other minerals. However, the unregulated nature of these activities has resulted in severe environmental, social, and economic repercussions.
Extensive literature highlights the potential impacts of mining, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. Socially, these activities have led to significant displacement, health risks, and human rights violations.
This study employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing surveys, interviews, and observations to collect data from mining communities, environmental agencies, and local government officials.
80% of respondents reported soil pollution, and 75% reported water pollution, and 60% reported forced relocations, with 55% losing their livelihoods.70% noted increased poverty levels, while 65% reported reduced economic opportunities.
The results underscore the devastating consequences of underground mining in Kono District. Environmental degradation aligns with previous research, while community displacement and poverty exacerbation are consistent with broader studies.
Urgent action is required to address these catastrophic consequences. Regulatory reforms, community engagement, and sustainable mining practices are essential to mitigate these impacts. Both the Sierra Leone government and Koidu Holdings must prioritize sustainable development in Kono District.
This paper highlights the multifaceted impacts of underground mining in Kono District, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention. The findings reveal alarming trends of environmental degradation, community displacement, and poverty exacerbation, warranting immediate action to promote sustainable development.
Establish and enforce strict regulations on underground mining activities to mitigate environmental degradation and community displacement, and foster community engagement in decision-making processes to address poverty and displacement issues.
Adopt sustainable mining practices to minimize environmental impacts, and provide compensation and support to communities affected by mining activities.
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