By Peter Kollie & J. Mason Kollie | Zorzor District, Lofa County
Residents of Zolowo Town and neighboring communities in Zorzor District, Lofa County, are demanding urgent government intervention after accusing the Upper and Lower Northern Mining Company of polluting the Zayea River during its operations in nearby Kilewu Town.
The dispute intensified following a stakeholders’ meeting on January 3, 2026, attended by District Commissioner Hon. Paul R. Kalama, the Zorzor City Mayor, community leaders, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) supervisor, and officials from the Ministry of Mines and Energy. At the meeting, residents pressed for a temporary suspension of the company’s activities until pollution concerns are addressed and safe drinking water is restored. They also insisted the company honor commitments outlined in its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), including the construction of hand pumps and provision of social services.
On January 20, local authorities and the EPA ordered the company to halt operations, citing violations of the MoU. Commissioner Kalama explained that the agreement required the company to build clinics, rehabilitate schools, improve roads, and provide clean water facilities. “The company refused to live by the MoU, and therefore we asked them to halt all mining activities until they fulfill the terms and conditions,” he said.
Community representatives allege that mining activities along the Zayea River, which began in 2025, have caused heavy sedimentation and contamination stretching downstream to Zolowo and other villages. Mr. Harris Mulbah of Zolowo Town said the pollution has disrupted daily life, as residents rely on the river for drinking, cooking, and washing. “We have been calling on our local leaders to address these issues for a long time, but they are not even giving attention,” he lamented.
Residents report that unsafe water consumption is already causing health problems. They warn that unless authorities intervene, they may take unspecified actions against the company. Community member Fasu Selleh added that the company has failed to deliver at least 75 percent of its promised projects under the MoU.
Despite the suspension order, residents allege the company continues operating along the river. They are now appealing to the EPA, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, county authorities, and the national government to take decisive action to safeguard public health and protect the environment.
As tensions rise, affected communities await concrete measures to address the alleged environmental damage and restore access to safe drinking water.
