Paramount Chief Hon. Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III on July 3 presented to parliament a petition on behalf of communities and fellow paramount chiefs from Dansogoia, Sambaia, and Diang Chiefdoms in the Tonkolili district, seeking legislative action to protect the rights of the people and landowners of the iron ore rich area in Kasafoni and to address recent pronouncements by the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDC).
This action, observers say, highlights ongoing tensions between local communities and government regulatory bodies concerning land ownership and rights.
During the parliamentary session, PC Hon. Jalloh III clarified that the motion sought to address community concerns, not undermine the government.
He stated, “We respectfully submit herewith a public petition on behalf of the people, landowners, and traditional authorities of Dansogoia, Sambaia, and Diang Chiefdoms in the Tonkolili and Koinadugu districts, pursuant to Standing Orders 17 and 70 (5)a of the Standing Orders of Parliament.”
The petition primarily challenges SLMMDC regulations, specifically the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (Allocated Minerals and Mineral-Related Assets) Regulations, 2024 Statutory Instrument No. 11 of 2024, which claim exclusive ownership and lease authority over the Kasafoni area. Hon. Jalloh III argued these claims contradict customary land ownership rights and violate national legislation, including the Customary Land Rights Act, 2022, and the Mines and Minerals Development Act, 2022.
Hon. Jalloh III said “the implications of these regulations threaten not only our traditional land ownership but also undermine the social fabric of our communities.” He expressed deep concern over potential consequences for local landowners and the broader community, urging parliament to act swiftly.
Furthermore, the petitioners seek parliamentary intervention to recognize their lawful lease agreement with the Gento Group of Companies. They request that section 2 of the disputed regulations be declared invalid due to conflict with the Constitution of Sierra Leone.
Hon. Jalloh III appealed, “We trust that you will give this matter the urgency and attention it deserves in the interest of justice, community rights, and national cohesion,” seeking legislative support for community rights.
Hon. Jawah Sesay seconded the motion, emphasizing the importance of upholding local community rights against governmental regulations. This discussion is expected to spark further parliamentary debates as lawmakers consider the challenge posed by SLMMDC’s regulations on established customary rights.
Following the petition’s presentation, Rtd. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, speaker of parliament and chairman of the Public Petitions Committee, announced that the committee would convene on Monday to deliberate on the issues.
Local communities in the Tonkolili and Koinadugu districts await a resolution that recognizes their historical land rights and ensures their voices are heard in legislative discussions.
The outcome of this parliamentary petition could significantly impact governance, community rights, and the future of mining operations in Sierra Leone, highlighting the delicate balance between national development and preserving customary rights. As stakeholders prepare for deliberations, local communities cautiously hope for a resolution that honors their long-standing connection to the land.