By Sampson W. Weah – sampsonwweh7@gmail.com
Stockton Creek, Liberia – Residents of Stockton Creek have strongly rejected proposed sand mining operations in their community, citing grave concerns about safety, public health, and environmental destruction.
During a tense but constructive meeting this week, Representative Kerkula Muka Kamara intervened to mediate between community members from Doe and surrounding areas and a Chinese company seeking to carry out sand mining in the creek.
Residents warned that unchecked sand extraction could weaken riverbanks, placing homes in already overcrowded neighborhoods at risk of collapse.
They also fear that mining would disrupt fishing and other daily activities that sustain local livelihoods.
Community members highlighted that sand mining would destabilize the riverbanks, endanger lives, and disrupt the natural flow of the creek, leading to flooding and the destruction of aquatic habitats.
They further raised concerns that the practice would deprive families of their main source of income and food, while pollution, dust, and noise could worsen existing health issues such as malaria, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
Some also argued that the destruction of their environment in favor of company profits undermines their dignity, safety, and wellbeing.
Representative Kamara assured locals that their voices would be amplified at the national level. “I want the people of Doe Community to know that their concerns matter,” he said. “I will personally ensure that their rights are protected and that any development in this area does not come at the expense of their safety, health, or livelihoods.”
Community leaders welcomed Kamara’s intervention, noting that it provided residents an opportunity to assert their rights and demand accountability.
They emphasized that development initiatives must benefit communities rather than exploit them.
The meeting ended with a firm resolution: sand mining operations in Stockton Creek will not proceed unless all safety, environmental, and livelihood concerns are adequately addressed.
Representative Kamara pledged ongoing engagement with both the community and relevant authorities to secure a sustainable way forward.
