Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Kono District are urging the Sierra Leonean government to urgently investigate the cause of ongoing earth tremors in Koidu City.
In a press release issued on Monday 30th 2025, the CSOs revealed that residents of Koidu have been disturbed by terrifying sounds suspected to be linked to earth tremors, potentially caused by mining activities in the region. These tremors occurred on January 25th and 30th 2025, and have left many residents in a state of fear and uncertainty.
One of the mining companies, Koidu Limited, is known to conduct explosive mining operations to extract kimberlite in the area. The tremors appear to have had a significant impact on buildings located near the company’s mining site. However, despite the widespread speculation, none of the mining companies operating in the district have taken responsibility for the incidents.
The CSOs reported that several buildings in Koidu City have been damaged, with cracks appearing in homes and other structures. The residents are now living in constant fear that further tremors could worsen the situation. They have called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Mineral Agency (NMA), and the Ministry of Environment to swiftly investigate the cause of the tremors and provide clear communication to the public.
In an interview, Tamba Abu, a resident of Kanayia New Site in Koidu City, shared his experience of the tremor on January 30. “It was around midnight when I heard a terrifying sound that lasted almost a minute,” he said. “My wife and children screamed for help.” The following morning, Abu discovered several cracks in his house, and many of his neighbors reported similar damage. He expressed concern that this is not an isolated incident, noting that such tremors have been happening since Koidu Holdings began mining operations in the district.
Tamba further revealed that the impact of mining in the Tankoro Chiefdom has been severe, with local schools and even the Tankoro Police Station being relocated due to the ongoing disturbances caused by the mining activities.
The CSOs and residents of Koidu City are calling for immediate government action to investigate the cause of the earth tremors and determine whether the mining operations are responsible. The future of Koidu City hangs in the balance as the community awaits answers.
By Sahr Ibrahim Komba
