Monrovia, May 19 -- he town of Gbakonai, nestled within Liberia's mineral-rich Bong County, has become the focal point of an escalating mining dispute, raising concerns about community harmony, legal adherence, environmental protection, and the well-being of its residents.

On Wednesday, May 14, Unification Day, Assistant Minister of Mines and Energy, Carlos E. Tingban, concluded a crucial day-long community gathering aimed at addressing the growing tensions arising from conflicting claims between two companies vying for mining rights in the area.

The meeting, attended by local leaders, community members, and officials from the Ministry of Mines and Energy, sought to provide clarity amidst increasing concerns over the operations of H&K M...