By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope Reporter
Residents of Yoni Mabanta Chiefdom in the Tonkolili District have firmly rejected a proposal from Westfield Mining Company Ltd to initiate large-scale bauxite mining operations on their lands. Community members expressed serious concerns over the potential environmental and economic impacts during a series of meetings held on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
The gatherings took place across various locations, including Magbafth, Robarie, and Makeni Roke Fullah, and were attended by local stakeholders, including land-owning families, farmers, women, youth groups, and ceremonial chiefs. The meetings were convened in response to an earlier announcement by Westfield Mining during a Chiefdom meeting led by Paramount Chief Fullamasa Gbabereh in Roruks.
David Sam Kamara, a representative of the Concern Yoni Mabanta Chiefdom pressure group, stated, “We have made our position very clear that we are not interested in mining. Any attempt to impose mining on our lands will be resisted.” Civil society activist Mohamed E. J Kargbo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the community will not permit the destruction of their lands for mining activities.
The residents have warned that individuals accepting monetary offers or gifts from the mining company will do so at their own risk. As a response, the community is preparing a petition to present to the Paramount Chief, the Tonkolili District Council, and relevant government authorities. This petition will outline their objections to the proposed mining plans and call for the government to deny any licenses to Westfield Mining.
Additionally, the community has demanded the removal of machinery that has reportedly been brought into some villages without consent. The unity displayed during the meetings underscores the community’s collective resolve to safeguard their environment and livelihoods.
The Concern Yoni Chiefdom pressure group has called on the government to respect the community’s wishes and prioritize their interests over those of the mining company. They have also urged authorities to investigate the company’s activities in the chiefdom and take immediate action against any unauthorized operations.
As the situation develops, the response from both the government and Westfield Mining remains to be seen. The Chiefdom Council and the mining company have yet to address the community’s concerns.
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