Following extensive discussions between the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS) and the leadership of Koidu Limited, in the wake of a peaceful protest and the subsequent agreement on a resolution framework, both MELSS and Koidu Limited (Koidu) are encouraging Koidu’s national workforce to immediately return to work on Thursday, 20th March 2025.
Upon the workforce’s return, MELSS and Koidu will promptly address the recommendations and advice outlined by MELSS in its letter to Koidu’s General Manager on 28th February 2025, as referenced in Appendix 1 of this release.
Both MELSS and Koidu have engaged in extensive discussions, and both parties are confident that, once the national workforce returns to work, solutions to all concerns raised by MELSS will be reached within 48 hours. Additionally, it has been agreed that quarterly bonus payments, based on diamond export pricing supervised by the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), will be introduced for the national workforce. These bonuses will take effect on 2nd April 2025 and will be awarded according to parameters to be negotiated and agreed upon between Koidu and MELSS.
Despite lengthy discussions, Koidu has decided not to re-employ individuals who were dismissed. However, in the spirit of the constructive relationship established between all parties involved, particularly the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, and at the specific request of the Government of Sierra Leone, Koidu will pay full end-of-service benefits to the dismissed employees. Employees who feel aggrieved may seek redress through the avenues provided by the Employment Act of 2023.
Koidu Limited reconfirms that its operations are fully compliant with the laws of Sierra Leone. Diamond production and exports are under the full supervision of GoSL officials representing key government institutions.
Both the Government of Sierra Leone and Koidu Limited remain committed to restoring long-term industrial peace and stability for the benefit of all stakeholders. To further this goal, MELSS and Koidu will establish the Koidu Workers Forum (KWF), chaired by the Honourable Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security. The KWF will develop initiatives in line with international best practices for the benefit of the national workforce and other stakeholders.