Grand Kru County authorities, and the Ministry of Mines and Energy swift intervention has successfully prevented a mining crisis in Norwaken District.
The intervention resulted in the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the affected community, and a mining company, whose operations, the locals have challenged.
The dispute reportedly began when community dwellers blocked the company from operating.
Residents alleged that it lacked the necessary legal documents to conduct mining activities in the area.
Concerned about the growing tension, Grand Kru County Superintendent, Madam Antoinette Worlee Nimely, and other local leaders, convened a stakeholders’ engagement at the Barclayville Administrative Building to address the matter.
Representatives from the Ministry of Mines and Energy, including Regional Coordinator, Washington Weah, clarified the company’s legal standing, and explain the framework governing Class ‘C’ mining activities.
Weah: “The company possesses valid legal documents to operate.”
He added that the newly signed agreement under Section 6.6 of the Mining Law, will ensure transparency, accountability, and community participation.
The agreement is also expected to reduce future misunderstandings, while creating a more peaceful environment for lawful mining activities.
During the meeting, officials warned against illegal mining in the county, but called on those in trade to obtain “proper registration or face legal consequences.”
Community leaders welcomed the outcome of the meeting, which they described as a positive step to protect both community interests and lawful investments.