Communities in Guinea's Kèbaly Sensitized on Mining Conflict Prevention

A delegation comprising officials from the mining sector, lawmakers, and Kèbaly residents visited the locality on September 23, despite challenging weather and access conditions. The visit aimed to educate the population on the stakes related to mining activities as part of the Simandou 2040 program. This initiative seeks to promote peace and social cohesion between local communities and mining companies operating in the area.

The sensitization campaign, led by Kindia's Prefectural Director of Mines and Geology, Soriba Kouyaté, aims to prevent tensions and foster better understanding between communities and mining enterprises. The discussions covered local content, corporate social responsibility, and compensation procedures under the revised Guinean Mining Code. The goal is to empower communities to comprehend their rights, responsibilities, and the stages involved in mining project development.

The delegation received support from Kindia's lawmakers, including Honorable Fatoumata Baldé, who emphasized the need to accompany local populations, particularly women, to benefit from economic opportunities linked to local development. She stressed the importance of listening to their concerns and taking them into account.

Deputy Dr. Naby Moussa Sylla, Vice-President of the National Assembly's Mining Commission, highlighted the importance of popularizing the Mining Code among impacted communities. He noted that compensation should not be the sole perspective for communities affected by mining projects. Sylla emphasized the need to consider Kèbaly's future after exploitation and the sustainable benefits for local populations.

The initiative was praised by Bangouya's Mayor, Soriba Camara, who considered prevention essential in managing relations between communities, authorities, and mining companies. He stressed the need for prevention, preparation, and conflict management to ensure peace.

Kèbaly residents welcomed the meeting, with President Mouctar Savané expressing gratitude for the authorities' visit to the enclaved locality. He believed that information and sensitization would enable populations to understand the stakes linked to bauxite exploitation and defend their interests while respecting existing texts.

For local authorities, mining development represents both an opportunity and a challenge for Kèbaly, which faces significant infrastructure and basic social service needs. The meeting allowed actors to directly exchange with populations on their concerns and mechanisms to promote peaceful coexistence between communities and mining operators.

Key points

• The Guinean delegation's sensitization campaign in Kèbaly focuses on promoting peace and social cohesion between local communities and mining companies.
• The initiative aims to empower communities to comprehend their rights, responsibilities, and the stages involved in mining project development.
• The campaign covers local content, corporate social responsibility, and compensation procedures under the revised Guinean Mining Code.