Residents of Bomi County, Liberia, have raised serious concerns against Western Cluster Liberia Limited, a Turkish mining company, alleging that its mining operations have caused significant harm to their lives and properties. The allegations include claims of homes being destroyed and residents experiencing hearing impairments due to the noise and vibrations caused by mining blasts. An investigative team from NEW DAWN visited the affected villages of Borbor and Bola Town, situated just 2 kilometers from the mining site, to gather testimonies from locals frustrated with the situation. The testimonies revealed a pattern of destruction attributed to the company’s operations that the residents feel has gone unaddressed.
During the investigation, the plight of an elderly handicapped woman, who relies on palm oil production for survival, was highlighted as her home had been destroyed by the blasts, leaving her in a vulnerable state. Many residents noted that the noises from the mines were reminiscent of the heavy weaponry used during Liberia’s civil conflict, causing them both physical and psychological distress. Town Chief Saa T. Sillie articulated their experiences, describing the earth-shaking vibrations produced by the blasting that have severely impacted their ability to hear from a distance. This situation has left communities anxious about their safety and the stability of their homes.
Further testimony from Chief Sillie emphasized ongoing communication attempts with Western Cluster’s management, which have been largely ignored. The chief expressed the desperation of his people, requesting government intervention to alleviate their suffering. He reported that many residents and their children are being forced to relocate due to the unsafe living conditions, which raises concerns about their long-term wellbeing. The townspeople feel that without action from state authorities, they could face further displacement or even worse consequences from the mining activities.
Among the affected individuals was Ma-Siah Alice, another resident who emotionally recounted her struggles living in the area impacted by mining operations. Alice’s home, like many others, was damaged, and she described nights filled with unbearable vibrations that disturb both her peace and hearing. Her plea for help from both the government and the mining company underlined the persistent frustration among residents, who feel neglected and unheard in their plight. She echoed sentiments shared by others regarding the need for immediate support and intervention to prevent more residents from facing similar predicaments.
In contrast, Joseph Coelho, the CEO of Western Cluster, provided a different perspective during an interview where he dismissed the residents’ claims as overly dramatic and unfounded. He insisted that the company operates within legal parameters established by the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Liberia Environmental Protection Agency. Coelho defended the company’s blasting practices by stating that advanced technology is employed to minimize any impact on close communities. He argued that the structural issues faced by the homes in these areas result from their poor construction, not the blasting, implying that external factors contribute to the residents’ misfortunes.
The ongoing tensions between the residents of Bomi County and Western Cluster illustrate a critical intersection of corporate mining activities and local community rights. The dissatisfaction voiced by the local populace raises fundamental questions regarding the responsibilities of mining companies to mitigate adverse effects on surrounding communities. As residents continue their appeals for assistance and recognition from both the company and the government, the future remains uncertain, hinging on crucial dialogues that could address their grievances and provide necessary support. The balance between economic development through mining and the welfare of local communities remains a pressing concern in Liberia’s quest for sustainable progress.
