In a significant development for the economic future of Tonkolili District, North of Sierra Leone, the Gento Group of Companies has entered into a mining land lease agreement with the people of Sambaia Chiefdom and two other chiefdoms, marking a milestone in local investment and community empowerment.

This landmark decision was announced during the homecoming ceremony of Hon. PC Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III, the Paramount Chief Member of Parliament, held in Bendugu town.

The event witnessed an enthusiastic turnout from local residents, who gathered to celebrate their newly elected representative alongside prominent businessman and philanthropist Mohamed Gento Kamara, whose presence was met with cheers and applause. The synergy between Gento group and the people of Sambaia Chiefdom reflects a critical shift toward local investment that prioritizes community needs and aspirations.

During the ceremony, Chief Jalloh III expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “Sambaia chiefdom has been sleeping, but today we awaken with the promise of development through the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio and the support of Mohamed Gento Kamara.” His remarks set a hopeful tone as attendees recognized the potential benefits that the Gento Group could bring to their lives.

Sambaia residents echoed these sentiments, expressing their gratitude for Gento Kamara’s commitment during challenging times. Many recalled their previous experiences with Kingho Mining, where expectations fell short, leaving the community disillusioned. “When we signed with Kingho Mining, we saw nothing materialize from their promises. They assured us of jobs through their security company, yet nothing was delivered,” lamented one resident.

In stark contrast, the approval of Gento Group as the rightful investor for the Kasafoni Land has been met with optimism. The residents have consulted their ancestors and received affirmative signs, solidifying their support for Gento Group. “Kasafoni land belongs to the Sambaia Chiefdom people,” stated one local leader, adding, “Any license issued concerning this land is in agreement with Gento Group.”

The paramount commitment shown by Gento Kamara was further endorsed by local leaders, who emphasized that the community has chosen not to engage with any other investors. “President Julius Maada Bio has made it clear that no mining license will be issued without a land lease agreement with the local people,” noted Chief Jalloh III, asserting Gento’s unique position as an investor aligned with their interests.

Hon. Jawah Sesay, the chairman of the event, praised Gento Kamara’s preliminary provisions of surface rent and reassured the audience that the investor is dedicated to upgrading local infrastructure by improving roads that have long been neglected. The overwhelming consensus was that Gento Group represents hope and progress for the people of Sambaia Chiefdom and beyond.

Several paramount chiefs present at the ceremony joined in affirming their support for Gento’s development initiatives. They called upon the local population to embrace the opportunities presented by this partnership and highlighted the importance of resilience within their communities. “We are proud to support a Sierra Leonean brother, and everyone should celebrate his success,” stated one chief.

The enthusiasm was palpable among local leaders, youth representatives, and women’s groups, each expressing their strong endorsement for Gento Kamara’s plans to invest in the mining sector. Calls for collaboration were echoed throughout the assembly, urging the government to ensure that the investment dreams come to fruition.

The day culminated in a shared vision for community empowerment and development. As Hon. Jawah Sesay highlighted, “This is a blessed day for the chiefdom. It marks our first time having a Koranko native representing Tonkolili District in Parliament.” He articulated gratitude to the Paramount Chief Member of Parliament for his developmental focus and introduced Gento Kamara to the audience, applauding him for his successful road projects across the country, which he described as exemplary of localization.

The atmosphere was one of renewal and purposes, with residents uniting to support a local investor who is perceived as genuinely invested in their welfare. By signing the land lease agreement with Gento Group, the people of Sambaia Chiefdom, alongside the other two chiefdoms, hope to usher in an era of sustainable development that prioritizes local needs and fosters growth.

The signing of the land lease agreement with Gento Group embodies a mutual commitment to development between the investor and the communities of Tonkolili North, signaling a transformative step toward economic empowerment and collaboration that promises to enhance the quality of life for residents in the region.