On June 4th, 2025, the Gento Group of Companies signed a lease agreement with Stakeholders of Sambaia Dansogoia and Deig Chiefdoms over the Tonkolili Kasafoni Iron Ore Deposits. In which, the community stakeholders expressed their readiness and willingness to fully collaborate with company.
On the other hand, Sierra Leone Mines and Mineral Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC), issued a press release, claiming exclusive ownership rights over the Tonkolili Iron Ore deposits.
The corporation purported that, being the legal owner of the deposits, they have not had any engagement, agreement or partnership with the company over the property, disqualifying the company’s ownership rights over the deposits.
In response, the Gento Group strongly dismisses SLMMDMC ownership claims over the deposits, demanding a retraction of the “defamatory” notice on the illegitimacy of the company’s lease agreement with the community stakeholders.
The company further emphasized that, being a 100% Sierra Leonean Company, they have signed an agreement with three paramount chiefs who are direct custodians of land, making them a legitimate owner. To back their claims, the company further cited section 33 sub section (3) (a) the Mines and Minerals Development Act 2022, adding that only a competent court of law can dismiss its ownership rights over the asset.
In closing, Gento Group of Companies threatens to explore all legal avenues to protect its name, reputation and interests.
