Government Denies Gento Group's Land Rights Claims Over Kasafoni Iron Ore Deposit

The Government of Sierra Leone has released a definitive public statement refuting claims by the Gento Group regarding its purported acquisition of land rights for mining operations at the Tonkolili North – Kasafoni Iron Ore Deposit.

In a direct repudiation, the Government clarified that the Kasafoni deposit is under the exclusive ownership and control of the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC), a state-owned enterprise established for the management of national mineral assets on behalf of all citizens of Sierra Leone.

"The legal framework is unambiguous," the statement affirmed. "This deposit has been officially designated to the Corporation by both Cabinet and Parliament. No private entity, individual, or traditional leader possesses the authority to lease, sell, or assign any rights over it."

The Government's stance follows public assertions made by the Gento Group and associated media reports suggesting the company had secured local agreements to conduct mining activities in Kasafoni, situated at Sula Mountain within the Tonkolili District.

However, authorities maintain that such claims are "devoid of legal effect and entirely null and void." Pursuant to relevant legislation, only the Corporation is empowered to manage or authorize mining activities in Kasafoni or any other location officially assigned to its purview.

Officials cautioned that any unauthorized attempt to claim, lease, or operate within the designated area may result in legal proceedings.

"This asset is the property of the Republic of Sierra Leone and is legally protected. The public is advised against engaging in any private agreements concerning it," the statement further stipulated.

The Government urged all investors, traditional authorities, and local communities to liaise directly with the SLMMDMC and to abstain from illegal or misleading arrangements that could compromise national resources.