Western Cluster’s Workers Unpaid for 4 Months -Sources Reveal Corporate Excesses, Including Bad Labor Practices

By Stephen G. Fellajuah

An independent investigation has revealed serious allegations against Wester Cluster Liberia Limited, a prominent iron ore mining company in Bomi County, western Liberia.

The report highlights significant issues, including poor labor practices, salary disparities, alleged sexual harassment, and the destruction of local towns due to mining activities, including blasting.

The reports raise critical concerns about the company’s operations and their impact on the community and workers.

It has been a serious issue regarding employee compensation at Western Cluster Liberia

The investigative visit to the Wester Cluster surroundings revealed that blasting operations have significantly damaged two towns: Borbor Town and Bola Town. The impact on these communities has raised concerns about safety and environmental security, necessitating further assessment and potential remedial actions.

The visitation revealed significant damage to local homes and the town hall caused by vibrations from mining activities.

Additionally, an elderly woman in her late 70s has suffered hearing impairment attributed to the noise and vibrations from the mining blasts.

It’s troubling to hear that employees haven’t received their salaries for three months. This situation not only signals potential financial instability within the company but can also significantly affect staff morale and trust in management.

Mr. Joseph Coelho, Western Cluster Liberia Limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in a chart with journalists at his office in 18 Street Sinkor, Monrovia admitted that they have not paid their employees for the past three to four months.

Employees may feel anxious about their financial security, leading to decreased productivity and higher turnover rates.

Citizens say it is crucial for the company to address these concerns transparently and develop a plan to rectify the situation to restore confidence among staff.

The Ministry of Labor in Liberia has raised concerns regarding the operations of two major mining companies: Bea Mountain Mining Company (BMMC) in Grand Cape Mount County and Western Cluster Liberia in Bomi County. This action likely reflects issues related to labor practices, environmental impacts, or compliance with local regulations.

It emphasizes the need for these companies to adhere to labor laws and ensure the welfare of their workers and communities.

The investigation further highlights significant disparities and questionable practices that undermine the rights and opportunities of Liberian workers, sparking widespread concern about the companies’ compliance with national labor laws and their commitment to fostering local employment.

Western Cluster Liberia, another major mining operation in the country, faces criticism for its labor practices that have left hundreds of Liberians in precarious employment situations.

Despite holding a 25-year concession agreement to mine in Bomi County, the company directly employs only two Liberians, with 563 Liberian workers hired through an outsourcing program managed by subcontractors.

The has left the hired Liberians with no job security or direct employment benefits.

Most of the workers are on three-month contracts, further exacerbating their employment instability.

The Ministry of Labor has expressed deep concern over this arrangement, questioning why a company with such a long-term concession agreement has failed to integrate more Liberians into its direct workforce.

“We have made it clear that this is unacceptable,” said Cllr Cooper Kruah. “These Liberians need permanent employment, not exploitation through third-party agreements.”

The minister also criticized Western Cluster for its lack of corporate social responsibility, despite its extensive operations.

The company has not invested in essential services like schools and hospitals for the local community.

Minister Kruah has called on the Bureau of Concessions to join the conversation to resolve these issues, vowing to raise the matter in the cabinet to ensure that the rights and welfare of Liberian workers are safeguarded.

Cllr. Cooper Kruah has reiterated that the Ministry of Labor would not relent in its efforts to ensure fair labor practices across all concession companies in Liberia.

A comprehensive review of all concession agreements and labor practices is underway, with a particular focus on ensuring that Liberians are given the opportunity to actively participate in their economy.

The Labor Ministry’s ongoing assessment tour will cover all major concession companies, with a final report to be made public at the end of the tour.

“We are committed to holding these companies accountable and ensuring that Liberians are not marginalized in their own country,” Kruah concluded.