NATIONAL NEWS
CAPITOL HILL – Gbarpolu County Senator Amara M. Konneh has called on the Liberian Senate to investigate the growing spread of illegal mining activities across the country, warning that the practice is causing significant environmental damage and posing serious risks to communities and natural resources.
By: Sampson W Weah – sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
In a communication addressed to Senate President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Senator Konneh expressed concern over what he described as widespread illicit mining operations in Gbarpolu County and several other parts of Liberia.
According to the senator, unregulated mining activities involving heavy machinery and unauthorized operators are degrading waterways, destroying farmlands, and threatening other environmentally sensitive areas.
Konneh referenced a recent visit by Mines and Energy Minister R. Matenokay Tingban to Henry Town in Gbarpolu County, during which the minister reportedly described the situation as “a national emergency.”
“The description by the Honorable Minister is not unique to Gbarpolu, but applies to nearly all of Liberia’s fifteen counties,” Konneh stated in his communication.
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 causes of the problem, ongoing enforcement efforts, and measures being taken to address the environmental impact of illegal mining activities.
He urged the Senate to treat the matter with urgency, citing its potential consequences for local communities, the environment, and the sustainable management of Liberia’s natural resources.
Following the reading of the communication, the Senate acknowledged receipt of the matter and forwarded it to the Senate Committee on Mines and Energy for review and further action.
The committee is expected to examine the concerns raised and submit its findings and recommendations to the plenary for consideration.
