Monrovia, Liberia—Senator Amara M. Konneh of Gbarpolu County has called on the Liberian Senate to look into the expanding illicit mining operations around the nation, claiming that the practice is seriously endangering people and natural resources and severely affecting the environment. Senator Konneh wrote to Senate President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence to voice his concerns over what he termed as extensive illegal mining activities in Gbarpolu County and other areas of Liberia.
The senator noted that uncontrolled mining operations involving large machinery and unlicensed personnel are endangering other environmentally sensitive areas, damaging farmlands, and deteriorating waterways. Senator Konneh highlighted Mines and Energy Minister R. Matenokay Tingban’s recent visit to Henry Town in Gbarpolu County, where the minister purportedly declared a national emergency.
The senator’s letter added that the Honorable Minister’s description applies not just to Gbarpolu but to nearly all fifteen counties in Liberia. The lawmaker requested that the Senate invite the Minister of Mines and Energy and the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to brief lawmakers on the reasons behind the problem, the enforcement actions that are currently underway, and the measures being taken to address the environmental impact of illicit mining operations.
Citing potential effects for the environment, local communities, and the sustainable management of Liberia’s natural resources, he called on the Senate to act quickly on the issue. The Liberian Senate confirmed receipt of the communication after reading it and sent it to the Senate Committee on Mines and Energy for review and additional action. It is anticipated that the committee would investigate the issues brought up and present its conclusions and suggestions to the plenary for deliberation.
