The Mineral Wealth Fund (MWF), through the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC), conducted a comprehensive Environmental, Social, Health, and Impact Assessment (ESHIA) Public Disclosure Workshop in Kondembaia Town, Diang Chiefdom, Koinadugu District, on December 11, 2025.
The workshop brought together local authorities, landowners, youth groups, women’s leaders, civil society organizations, the security sector, Members of Parliament, and other community stakeholders to discuss proposed mining activities and their potential impacts on the environment and the community.
Facilitator Saidu Bah from Tropical Environmental Design Associates (TEDA) explained the purpose of the ESHIA process, emphasizing transparency, sustainable development, and community welfare. The study was conducted in compliance with the EPA Act of 2022 and other relevant regulations.
The ESHIA study aimed to identify and assess potential social and environmental impacts, determine measures to mitigate negative impacts, and maximize positive outcomes. Key concerns highlighted included deforestation, noise, air and water pollution, and mitigation measures were presented.
The Community Development Action Plan (CDAP) includes benefits in water supply, education, healthcare, road rehabilitation, and agriculture. SLMMDMC representative Prince Cuffie assured residents of the corporation’s commitment to national regulations and responsible community-centered practices.
Paramount Chief Sheku Koroma Magba III expressed confidence that SLMMDMC’s involvement would bring meaningful benefits to the people of Diang Chiefdom, highlighting challenges such as poor road networks and water supply.
Concerns raised by participants included land use, CDAP allocation, environmental conservation, employment, and community safeguards, which were documented for inclusion in the final ESHIA report.
