By Jariatu S. Bangura
Hon. Aaron of APC
The Deputy Opposition Leader 2, Hon. Aaron A. Koroma, has raised concerns over the environmental threats posed by illegal mining and the rising cost of essential goods in Sierra Leone.
The degradation of natural resources and the increasing cost of living remain critical issues for many Sierra Leoneans.
Speaking under Standing Order 23, Hon. Koroma highlighted the urgent need for government to address the ongoing destruction of the country’s water resources, particularly River Rokel, which serves as a key source of renewable energy.
“If nothing serious is done to stop the attacks on this river due to illegal mining and other activities, we risk losing the only water source with the potential to curb the ongoing energy and water crisis,” Hon. Koroma warned.
Hon. Koroma also raised concerns over the rising cost of cement, which has surged from Le160 to over Le200 per bag, representing an increase of over 35%.
“If cement is unavailable in Freetown, how much worse will it be for people in remote areas like Koinadugu and other districts?” he questioned.
Additionally, he called on the government to clarify the contradiction between stable exchange rates and the rising prices of essential commodities.
In response, the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Solomon Segepoh Thomas, announced an urgent meeting with key government officials.
“On Monday, we will meet with the Minister of Environment and the Minister of Trade to discuss these pressing issues,” he stated.
He emphasized that those discussions are not political but in the public interest, urging all members of the relevant committees to be present.The upcoming parliamentary meetings are expected to provide clarity on government policies and explore possible solutions to these urgent national challenges.
