Freetown, March 20, 2025 – The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS) and Koidu Limited have urged the company’s national workforce to return to work following extensive discussions in the wake of a peaceful protest.
A joint statement released on Thursday confirmed that both parties have agreed to address concerns raised by MELSS in a letter sent to Koidu Limited’s General Manager on February 28, 2025. Solutions to these concerns are expected to be reached within 48 hours of employees resuming work.
“The Ministry and Koidu have engaged in productive discussions, and we are confident that a resolution will be achieved swiftly,” stated a MELSS representative.
One key outcome of the discussions is the introduction of quarterly bonus payments for national employees, linked to diamond export prices under government supervision. This scheme is set to take effect on April 2, 2025, with specific terms to be negotiated between MELSS and Koidu.
However, Koidu Limited has maintained its stance on not reinstating previously dismissed employees. Instead, the company has agreed to pay full end-of-service benefits to those affected. “Any aggrieved employee is encouraged to seek redress through the Employment Act of 2023,” the statement noted.
Koidu Limited reaffirmed that its operations are fully compliant with Sierra Leonean laws, emphasizing that diamond production and exports remain under government oversight.
In a bid to promote long-term industrial peace, MELSS and Koidu will establish the Koidu Workers Forum (KWF), chaired by the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security. The forum will focus on implementing initiatives that align with international labor standards for the benefit of workers and other stakeholders.
The MELSS letter to Koidu, attached as an appendix, outlines several demands, including the reinstatement of suspended and terminated workers, salary increases, risk allowances, improved transportation, medical facilities, safe drinking water, and recognition of trade union rights.
While workers prepare to return, all eyes will be on Koidu Limited and MELSS to ensure that commitments made during negotiations are honored.
