Freetown, Sierra Leone – March 25, 2025 – Koidu Limited, one of Sierra Leone’s key mining operators, has announced an immediate suspension of its production, citing unresolved industrial action that the company deems illegal.
The company has placed its operations under “care and maintenance” as provided for under the Mines and Minerals Act, 2022, pending resolution of the ongoing crisis.
In a formal notice to the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Julius D. Mattal, Koidu Limited’s Director, Mr. Gustaf Fredrik Bodin, outlined the company’s grievances.
“The ongoing industrial action is clearly illegal as it contravenes multiple provisions of the Industrial Relations and Trade Union Act, 2024,” Bodin stated in the letter. “Employees and their union representatives have failed to adhere to the legal requirements for a lawful strike, rendering their actions unlawful.”
The company claims that workers attempting to resume their duties have faced threats and intimidation. “We have received several reports confirming that employees who wish to return to work are being prevented from doing so,” Bodin added.
The dispute, according to Koidu Limited, has been escalated to the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, but no resolution has been reached. The company further alleges that external political interference has worsened the situation, specifically citing Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio.
“The situation is exacerbated by external political interference, notably by Her Excellency the First Lady, advising workers against returning to work,” the letter claims.
The suspension of operations will remain in effect until the government intervenes to restore a safe working environment and legal compliance. Koidu Limited has called on the Mines Ministry to take immediate steps to resolve the crisis.
“We seek your immediate and authoritative intervention to rectify this situation, ensuring compliance with statutory provisions and restoring conditions suitable for the lawful and safe resumption of operations,” Bodin wrote.
The mining company’s decision to halt production is expected to have significant economic implications, particularly for the local workforce and the mining sector.
The Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources has yet to issue an official response to Koidu Limited’s concerns.
