Labour Minister addresses workers' welfare at Sierra Diamond Ltd Company Tongo- Lower Bambara chiefdom- Kenema District

24th January 2025

In a swift response to videos and images of Sierra Diamond workers strike action making rounds on social media, the Hon Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security Mohamed Rahman Swaray led a team of Senior Labour officials to the Company’s Mine Site to resolve the causes of the strike action.

These efforts are in line with the Ministry's mandates, which, among other things, are to maintain industrial peace and harmony and to protect the rights of the workers.

During an entrance meeting with management, Minister Swaray received report about the challenging business climate and its impact on the diamond markets, leading to the temporary closure of the mines while employees were sent home on administrative leave.

In another dimension, Minister Swaray held a town hall meeting with all stakeholders concerned, including Town Chief, land owners representative Hon. Francis Amara Konowa, Member of Parliament Hon. Rugiatu Tarawallie and a cross-section of employees from various units and departments.

Workers' representative submitted their concerns ranging from eight (8) months of unpaid salaries, accrued leave allowances, medical allowance, risk allowance, and NASSIT payments, among others.

In his response to the grave concerns of the workers, Minister Swaray reassured the workers of government commitment, noting the interest of H.E the President Julius Madda Bio that government is deeply concerned and will continue to engage management in a bid to address their legitimate concerns speedily.

Minister Swaray further applauded the workers for their resilient and law abiding posture during these trying times.

In closing, Minister Swaray re-echoed management's commitment to address all outstanding staff welfare issues, including backlog salaries, once operations resume at the mining site.

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