SAYEWHEAH TOWN, Bong County – Representative Prince K. Koinah of Bong County Electoral District 1 has concluded a one-day stakeholders’ meeting with residents in Sayewheah Town to address concerns over the pending resumption of operations by Turkish mining company MNG Gold.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
The meeting, attended by youth, elders, women, and local leaders, focused on growing public dissatisfaction with the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MNG Gold and affected communities.
Residents called for a complete review of the agreement to ensure it reflects current realities, addresses employment needs, and improves safety and community development.
Community members emphasized that the company’s return must not proceed without stronger safeguards and community involvement. Many criticized the previous agreement, citing limited job opportunities, inadequate benefits, and poor safety practices.
“Our people cannot continue to be bystanders while foreign companies profit from our resources,” one youth leader said. “This MoU must be revised to protect our welfare.”
In response, Rep. Koinah endorsed the citizens’ call for action and formally commissioned a community-led steering committee to oversee recruitment and address grievances. The committee will operate during a six-month probationary period ending in December 2025.
The committee is chaired by Edwin Greeves of Sayewheah Town, with Matthew Ben of U-Lah Town as co-chair and Elijah Gbea as a member. An advisory board including Duah Kangar and Marcuson Yean will support the committee, while Matthew Whymah and others will serve as ex-officio liaison officers.
Rep. Koinah provided L$50,000 to support internal transportation for the committee’s work and encouraged the body to remain transparent and responsive to community concerns.
“We will not allow anyone to exploit our district without our people benefiting,” Koinah said. “You must be part of every decision that affects your land and your future.”
The district leadership said the steering committee is expected to immediately engage with MNG Gold representatives and begin reviewing the terms of the 2015 MoU. The review aims to push for stronger employment guarantees for locals, improved safety standards, and increased investment in development projects.
Rep. Koinah assured constituents of continued oversight from his office and promised to advocate for their interests as discussions move forward.
