Community leaders of Wolapolu Clan in Zota District #4 in Bong County, have quizzed H&K Trading Incorporated, and ANNXIN Mining Company, about the provision of greater transparency regarding their operations, legal status, revenues, and proposed benefits to communities affected by their activities.
The call was made during a community engagement meeting held in Yowee. It brought together Acting Bong County Superintendent, Sam B. B. Elliott, District #4 Representative Robert Flomo Womgba, traditional leaders, women, and youth representatives.
The engagement focused on strengthening communication between the companies, and local communities while its addressed concerns surrounding mining activities, and proposed development initiatives.
The company Financial Officer, Miss Lin said, the engagement was intended to create an avenue for residents to express their concerns, and to better understand the priorities of communities in its operational area.
Miss Lin said, the company was committed to build a relationship based on transparency, respect, and open communication.
She also assured that the company will avoid making commitments it could not fulfill, while working with communities to identify realistic development priorities.
For Womgba, he requested documents, which outlined the companies’ legal status, mining activities, revenues, and proposed benefits for affected communities.
For Elliott, he supported the call for greater transparency, and urged proper coordination of financial transactions between the company, and residents, particularly those connected to community empowerment programs.
The engagement was facilitated by former Bong County Police Commander Fasu Sheriff, who has advocated for improved relations between the companies, and affected communities.
The meeting ended with both sides agreeing to continue dialogue.
