Artisanal miners in Kono recount sexual violence and lack of recourse after reporting incidents to mine authorities.
Women in Sierra Leone's Kono district are enduring rape and sexual harassment while seeking income in abandoned mines, a practice that became common after the civil war. Janet, 32, recounted being raped at 15 while scavenging for diamonds in Jaiama Nimikor, an experience that led to an unplanned pregnancy and community stigma. She now sends limited support to the child raised by a relative, funded by her continued mining work.
Haja, 48, a widow and mother of three, also shared her experience of being raped by a man in her village while working in the mines. She fled her community due to shame, leaving her children behind, and reported the incident to the camp master. The camp master dismissed her claim, suggesting the perpetrator might have been her boyfriend, leaving her with no support or justice.
These women turned to mining as a primary source of income after the civil war and the death of spouses, often scavenging in already depleted pits. The lack of formal employment opportunities forces them into dangerous environments where they face exploitation. Despite reporting incidents, victims often find no accountability from mine authorities or community leaders, exacerbating their trauma and economic hardship.
Why it mattersWomen miners in Kono are affected by rape and harassment, which impacts their safety and economic stability.
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