Senegal has decreed a nearly three-year suspension of all mining activities along its side of the southeastern Faleme River, a move aimed at protecting the environment and supporting local communities affected by the rapid expansion of artisanal gold mining. The decree, issued on Tuesday, halts mining operations within 500 metres (about 547 yards) from the river’s left bank until June 30, 2027.
The Faleme River, which originates in the highlands of Guinea and flows along a significant portion of Senegal’s border with Mali before joining the Senegal River, has suffered from severe pollution due to mining-related dredging and chemical discharges. These activities have not only degraded the river’s ecosystem but also posed threats to the health and livelihoods of nearby communities.
According to a recent survey, the number of illegal mining sites along both the Senegalese and Malian sides of the Faleme has surged, with over 800 sites reported, up from 600 in 2021. The environmental impact has been severe, with the river once supporting a diverse range of fish and mammals, including hippos, and playing a crucial role in local agriculture.
A 2024 study published in the Journal of Water Resource and Protection highlighted the urgent need for the restoration of the Faleme River, emphasising its importance to the region’s ecological balance and the well-being of its inhabitants.
Senegal’s decision to suspend mining activities reflects a growing recognition of the need to prioritize environmental conservation and community welfare in the face of increasing pressures from artisanal mining. The suspension is a critical step towards reversing the damage done to the Faleme and ensuring the sustainable management of the river and its resources.
Source: Africabriefing
