Workers at FG Gold’s Baomahun Gold Project have raised serious allegations against the company, claiming they are being subjected to inhumane treatment akin to modern-day slavery.
The company, led by Nigerian businessman Oliver Tunde Andrews, is under investigation for allegedly failing to follow the Sierra Leone government’s labour standards. Reports from local miners in Baomahun Village and Valunia Chiefdom, Bo District, reveal a troubling pattern of mistreatment by FG Gold management. Workers have accused the company of violating the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022, specifically Part XIX, which outlines the mining company’s responsibilities to provide safe working conditions and protect their employees’ rights. Many workers have described their experiences as “downgrading and inhumane,” emphasising that their pay falls below national standards.
They report a lack of critical safety measures, forcing workers to choose between purchasing safety equipment and jeopardising their health and safety on the job.
This situation raises serious questions about working conditions at one of Africa’s largest gold development projects.
FG Gold’s Baomahun Gold Project covers 124.27 km² and has a JORC-certified resource of 5.81 million ounces of gold, making it Sierra Leone’s first large-scale commercial gold mine.
Despite the project’s high potential, the treatment of local workers has overshadowed its accomplishments.
The Gleaner Newspaper contacted Nicola Asgill, FG Gold’s Head of Corporate Finance and Corporate Development, for comment on these allegations but has yet to receive a response. The growing discontent among workers necessitates immediate attention and action to address their grievances and ensure their rights are protected.
More details will be provided in the next edition!
