Senegal suspends mining activities near Mali border
Senegal has temporarily suspended mining activities along a section of the Faleme River, a key tributary of the Senegal River, in its southeastern region bordering Mali.
The decision, effective until June 30, 2027, was driven by concerns over environmental degradation and the health risks posed by the extensive use of chemicals in artisanal gold mining, which has surged in the region.
Effects
The suspension affects a 500-metre radius along the river’s left bank, and mining permits in the area have been halted. The Kedougou region, where the Faleme River is located, has seen a gold rush over the past 20 years, attracting thousands from across West Africa, leading to a proliferation of illegal mining activities.
Senegal’s Ministry of Mines highlighted the urgent need for measures to protect the river, preserve the environment, and ensure the well-being and safety of local communities. This decision follows ongoing complaints from those living along the river, who depend on it for farming and livestock.
In 2014, Senegal created a designated area for regulated artisanal gold mining in an attempt to control the activity. The suspension reflects the country’s broader strategy to address the environmental and social impacts of mining, especially in light of Mali’s ongoing political instability and security challenges.
