On October 7, 2024, Green Media Campaigners, a civil society organization specializing in media advocacy, publicly condemned Cllr. Fonati Koffa, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, for his inaction regarding the rampant illicit mining crisis in Grand Kru County, Liberia. Despite acknowledging the severe consequences this activity poses to the region during a recent convention in Philadelphia, Koffa has made no legislative moves to combat the issue. Steve Doito, the Lead Campaigner for Green Media, articulated the group’s frustration, emphasizing that Koffa’s awareness of the situation without subsequent action only exacerbates the ongoing crisis, leading to irreparable harm to both land and local populations.
At the Grand Kru Development Association’s 2024 Convention, Koffa expressed concern about the influx of illegal mining operations, which he noted were causing significant environmental degradation, pollution, and disruptions to education as children were compelled to leave school to engage in mining. However, the Green Media Campaigners and their civil society allies argue that without concrete legislative measures being implemented, Koffa’s commentary lacks substantive impact. “This is a moral indictment against Speaker Koffa,” Doito reiterated, highlighting the leader’s responsibility to enact regulations aimed at reforming mining practices, enhancing environmental protections, and providing a stable future for the youth of Grand Kru.
According to the coalition, the House of Representatives bears a crucial obligation to confront emerging threats and to forge actionable strategies to address them effectively. Doito stated, “Speaker Koffa’s inaction is morally indefensible,” reinforcing the idea that while communities are being harmed by illegal mining activities and their resources are being squandered, Koffa has yet to establish a meaningful legislative framework to tackle these pressing issues. The group’s dissatisfaction stems from the recognition that mere acknowledgment of a crisis is insufficient; tangible changes in policy and law are vital to counteract the detrimental effects of the illicit mining that plague the region.
Green Media Campaigners are urgently appealing to Koffa and the House of Representatives to transition from mere rhetoric to immediate and decisive action. They highlight the dire reality that Grand Kru is suffering as a result of both rampant greed and government negligence. Should these issues remain unaddressed, the coalition warns that the repercussions could escalate into a humanitarian and environmental catastrophe. The call to action from the media CSo group illustrates the critical need for proactive leadership; failure to act will not only reflect poorly on Koffa but could also lead future generations to suffer as a consequence of today’s inaction.
In concluding their statement, Green Media Campaigners encouraged the House of Representatives to recognize the illicit mining crisis as a national emergency requiring immediate prioritization of both Liberia’s environmental integrity and community well-being over political maneuvering. By treating the situation with the urgency it demands, they urge legislators to commit to creating robust, effective laws that can protect both the natural resources of Liberia and the people who rely on them.
The coalition remains dedicated to advocating for enhanced environmental policies and legislative reforms necessary for fostering sustainable practices in mining while ensuring the protection of Liberia’s invaluable natural resources and communities. Through these initiatives, Green Media Campaigners strive not only to raise awareness about the illicit mining crisis but also to push for a future where ecological integrity and the well-being of the people are upheld as paramount priorities in governmental decision-making.
