By: Problyn J. Alpha
To ease the financial burden of ongoing litigation against the former Koidu Limited Mining Company, the Executives of Kono Organisations (EKO) have donated Sixty Thousand Leones (Le 60,000) to the United Mines Workers Union (UMU). The presentation ceremony took place at the Kono Mineral Mining Review Project (KMMP) office in Koidu City, Kono District.
Presenting the donation on behalf of EKO, District Coordinator Ibrahim Bockarie stated that the financial support was sourced from the diaspora wing of EKO. He emphasized that EKO is a coalition of rights-based organizations within the district, committed to supporting development causes and advocating for social justice.
“Over the years, EKO has extended support to individuals, private entities, and government institutions across Kono District. These include farming projects in Peyima (Sandor Chiefdom), aid to vulnerable populations, and support for the Koidu Government Hospital,” Mr. Bockarie explained.
He said EKO’s contribution to UMU reflects their solidarity with the union’s pursuit of justice against its former employer, Koidu Limited, which he accused of violating international labor standards.
“Koidu Limited, once one of the biggest kimberlite mining companies in the country with World Bank backing, operated in complete disregard of international labor standards. Their practices amounted to modern-day slavery giving meager payments to employees until those workers began asserting their rights, leading to the current legal battle,” Bockarie remarked.
He added that Kono District remains one of the most affected regions in Sierra Leone, as most multinational companies have either ceased operations or placed their sites under care and maintenance. EKO, he said, supports UMU because it believes the union is fighting not only for its members but for the **entire district and nation.
“This support may be small, but we urge you to receive it in good faith. It reflects our unwavering stance with you during this struggle,” he concluded, noting that the effort was facilitated by EKO’s Diaspora President, Madam Sia, with help from other diaspora members.
EKO Organizer Martha Fears echoed similar sentiments as she symbolically handed over the donation to UMU executives, expressing confidence in the union’s determination to secure justice.
In response, UMU President Charles Kanesie expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating that the union was not surprised by EKO’s continued support.
“From the very beginning of the Koidu Limited impasse, EKO has stood firmly with us. This donation strengthens our resolve and provides crucial support as we continue to seek justice not only for former workers but for Kono District as a whole,” he said.
He thanked both the national and international leadership of EKO, especially Mr. Sahr M. Famanda and Madam Sia, for their solidarity during what he described as a challenging time for the union and the community.
“I assure you that the money will be used judiciously in advancing our legal battle,” Kanesie concluded.