The National Advocacy Coalition on Extractives (NACE) has been monitoring events in Koidu town, Kono district in the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone since Friday 14th December 2007. NACE as a Coalition is very concerned over the confrontation between the Affected Property Owners Association and the Kimberlite Diamond Mining company, Koidu Holdings Limited which led to the death of two people and injuries incurred by many others.
In a press release, NACE urges “constructive dialogue” in dealing with conflicts in the extractive sector it says should be the norm rather than the exception because NACE has the view that violent conflict is inimical to the peace and development of Sierra Leone. Human rights violations will always be prevalent in such violent conflicts.
NACE recognizes the efforts of various stakeholders particularly the office of the President in fostering dialogue between the affected parties and awaits the outcome of the meetings. In the mean time, NACE is conducting its investigations and will publish a full report on the said incident.
ADVERTISEMENT