FG Gold: A Beacon of Hope for Responsible Mining in Sierra Leone
– Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina
By Benjamin S Conteh
Honorable Saa Emerson Lamina, a senior Member of Parliament from the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) representing Kono District and Deputy Leader of Government Business Two, has hailed FG Gold’s approach to mining as a benchmark for responsible and sustainable mining in Sierra Leone. Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Lamina praised FG Gold’s operations in Baomahun Village, Valunia Chiefdom, Bo District, during an interaction with parliamentary journalists on Friday, November 15, 2024.
The discussion followed a series of media reports that raised concerns over the company’s activities. However, Hon. Lamina, after a recent site visit, commended FG Gold’s corporate social responsibility initiatives and sustainable practices, despite the company not yet commencing full-scale production.
A Model for Modern Mining in Sierra Leone
In his remarks, Hon. Lamina stated:
“Chief Oliver Andrews, Executive Chairman of FG Gold, has set an example for modern-day mining investors in the country. A miner’s primary goal is profitability, but they also have an obligation to support the communities in which they operate. FG Gold has gone above and beyond by initiating impactful community projects even before extracting a single ounce of gold.”
He highlighted FG Gold’s compliance with Sections 143 and 144 of the Mines and Minerals Development Act, 2022, which mandate that mining companies allocate at least 1% of their revenue toward Community Development Agreements (CDAs) upon commencing production.
“Despite not reaching the production stage required to fulfill CDA obligations, FG Gold has already built a school in Valunia Chiefdom and solarized major communities in the area,” Hon. Lamina continued. “Moreover, 70% of the company’s workforce is drawn from local communities. These actions demonstrate a commitment to community upliftment and set a high standard for other investors.”
First Large-Scale Gold Mining Operation in Sierra Leone
Hon. Lamina noted that FG Gold holds the distinction of being Sierra Leone’s first large-scale gold mining company. Historically, gold in the country was mined on an artisanal basis using rudimentary methods. FG Gold has introduced large-scale operations, creating a new paradigm in gold mining and setting a precedent for future investors.
“Mining in Sierra Leone began in the 1930s, yet FG Gold is the first to secure a license and implement large-scale gold extraction. This achievement alone is monumental and deserving of recognition,” Hon. Lamina added.
Challenges and Allegations
Despite the accolades, FG Gold faces allegations ranging from inhumane treatment of miners to environmental degradation and non-compliance with statutory requirements. Media reports have cited accusations such as:
• Failure to implement CDA provisions, including road rehabilitation.
• Pollution of local water sources critical for agriculture.
• Exploitation of workers through poor pay and conditions.
• Extracting minerals outside the boundaries of their mining lease agreement (MLA).
• Hostile treatment of locals by foreign staff.
In response, Hon. Lamina acknowledged the concerns and assured the public that his committee’s forthcoming report will provide clarity on these allegations.
Upcoming Press Conference
A detailed press conference, scheduled for next week, will feature Hon. Lamina and members of the Mines and Minerals Oversight Committee. The conference will address the committee’s findings, provide updates on FG Gold’s operations, and respond to the allegations raised in the media.
FG Gold’s Commitment to Sustainability
FG Gold positions itself as a trailblazer in African mining, prioritizing sustainability and long-term growth. The company has committed to developing projects that benefit stakeholders, employees, and local communities. FG Gold proudly emphasizes its African leadership and workforce, striving to deliver value “for the African people, by the African people.”
As Sierra Leone continues to attract mining investments, Hon. Lamina urged both national and international stakeholders to emulate FG Gold’s model, calling it a blueprint for responsible and community-oriented mining.
“FG Gold is not just mining for profit; it is mining with a purpose. This approach should inspire a new era of mining in Sierra Leone,” he concluded.
