How the Diamond Giant is Exploiting Workers While Hiding Behind Legal Jargon
by Mahmud Tim Kargbo
Thursday, 13 March, 2025
Koidu Limited, the mining giant operating in Sierra Leone’s Kono District, has once again demonstrated its utter disregard for the welfare of its workers. In a recent press release, the company attempted to justify its harsh and exploitative treatment of employees while dismissing their rightful demands as “illegal industrial action.” But behind the polished corporate language lies a grim reality—systematic oppression, unfair dismissals, poor wages, and intimidation tactics aimed at crushing workers’ rights.
THE REALITY BEHIND KOIDU’S “CARE” FOR WORKERS
Koidu Limited claims that its “absolute priority remains the safety and wellbeing of its employees.” Yet, the same workers they claim to care about are subjected to low wages, long hours, and dangerous working conditions. These employees, who risk their lives daily extracting valuable diamonds, are struggling to earn a living wage, while the company rakes in massive profits from Sierra Leone’s rich mineral resources.
Instead of engaging in genuine dialogue, Koidu’s management has chosen to hide behind threats, legal technicalities, and security forces, demonstrating that their true priority is maintaining control—not protecting their workers.
WORKERS DEMAND JUSTICE, KOIDU RESPONDS WITH REPRESSION
The strike action at Koidu Diamond Mine was not a spontaneous outburst—it was a desperate plea for justice. Workers are demanding:
- Fair wages that reflect the value of their labour.
- Reinstatement of unjustly dismissed employees.
- Better working conditions that meet basic safety and human rights standards.
- An end to intimidation and threats from management and security forces.
But instead of listening, Koidu Holdings labeled the strike “illegal” and issued veiled threats about shutting down operations. This is nothing but a calculated attempt to silence and punish those who dare to speak out.
THE GOVERNMENT STEPS IN—BUT KOIDU HOLDS ITS GROUND
Recognising the severity of the situation, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Office of the First Lady, has stepped in to ensure that labour laws are enforced fairly. This move demonstrates a commitment to protecting workers’ rights and addressing their grievances through lawful means.
However, despite these efforts, Koidu Holdings Limited remains uncommitted to the negotiations. The company continues to resist fair dialogue, refusing to acknowledge the legitimate concerns raised by the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Office of the First Lady. This blatant disregard for government intervention highlights the company’s arrogance and unwillingness to engage in good-faith discussions.
CORRUPTION AND EXPLOITATION UNDER THE COVER OF “CLARIFICATIONS”
In its statement, Koidu Holdings denies allegations of corruption and dishonesty, claiming that every diamond extracted is “fully accounted for.” But let’s not forget—this is the same company that has faced allegations of exploitation, environmental destruction, and unfair labour practices for years.
If Koidu is truly transparent, why not:
- Allow independent investigators to audit their operations?
- Disclose their full wage structure and how much revenue is reinvested into worker welfare?
- Commit to fair labour negotiations without coercion or threats?
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH: THE TIME FOR ACTION IS NOW!
Koidu Limited cannot continue to profit from Sierra Leone’s diamonds while treating its workers like disposable tools. This is modern-day economic slavery, and it must end.
We call on:
- The Sierra Leonean government to take stronger action against Koidu’s refusal to cooperate.
- International labour organisations to investigate Koidu’s treatment of its workers.
- Civil society and human rights groups to amplify the voices of the oppressed miners.
The people who dig for diamonds should not have to beg for the bare minimum. Their sweat and sacrifice fuel this industry, and they deserve justice!
#JusticeForKoiduWorkers
#FairLaborRights
#CorporateAccountability