Mrs. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, joined aggrieved workers of Koidu Limited Mining Company in Kono Town today in a peaceful protest, advocating for better working conditions and improved employee welfare.
Standing in solidarity with the workers, Mrs. Bio emphasized that their demands are not only reasonable but necessary for the dignity and well-being of employees. The protest centered around key issues such as the recognition of the workers’ union, a 30% salary increase, overtime pay, living allowances, incentives, access to safe drinking water, and the right to financial freedom.
“This protest is a call to action for the company to address these concerns and ensure a fair and just working environment,” Mrs. Bio stated. “We believe that these demands will not only benefit the employees but also contribute to the company’s overall success.”
As a well-known advocate for social justice, Mrs. Bio made it clear that her involvement is not politically motivated. With her husband, President Julius Maada Bio, in the final term of his presidency, she has no political ambitions. Instead, she stands with the workers as a compassionate leader and a mother of the nation, committed to improving the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
The protesters hope that Koidu Limited will engage in good faith negotiations and implement positive changes that reflect the workers’ needs. Mrs. Bio assured the workers that their fight for justice will continue until meaningful progress is achieved.
The peaceful demonstration sends a strong message about the importance of fair labor practices and the collective power of workers advocating for their rights.
