By: Staff Writer
Montserrado County, Monrovia- Wednesday, February 18, 2025-The House of Representatives has summoned the Ministry of Mines & Energy (MME) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to appear before Plenary next Thursday to address concerns regarding mining licenses, environmental degradation, and harmful mining practices by several mining companies and class βCβ alluvial miners.
The decision followed a communication from Hon. Austin Taylor, Representative of Maryland County, Electoral District 3, who raised serious concerns about ongoing illegal mining activities that are polluting water bodies, destroying ecosystems, and endangering local communities.
Hon. Taylor highlighted that mining operations, particularly along the Gee River in Feloken, Barrobo, Maryland County, have completely polluted the waterway, rendering it unsafe for local residents. He further stressed that mining companies are using hazardous chemicals like mercury, posing a severe threat to biodiversity and human health.
In addition, concerns have been raised about the absence of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between mining companies and affected communities. The lacks of clear agreements have fueled legal uncertainties, corporate neglect, and inadequate social responsibility from mining operators.
Following deliberations, Plenary passed a motion mandating the MME and EPA to appear and provide detailed explanations on the licensing and operational practices of the following companies:
1.Soar Mining INC.
2 .Tietto Minerals (Liberia), Ltd.
3. Lituo Mining Company, Ltd.
4. Hummingbird Resources InC.
5. Jupiter Mining Company
6. Jinlong Mining Resources (Liberia) Technology INC.
7. Godsent Group Ltd.
8. DE Mining Company
9. Duke Mining Company
The House of Representatives remains committed to ensuring that mining activities adhere to environmental laws and corporate responsibility standards, and that affected communities receive due protection and benefits.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In-Chief
