In western Côte d’Ivoire, approximately 185 residents fell ill after consuming fish and water contaminated by mining waste from the Ity gold mine, operated by Endeavour Mining.
On Sunday, June 23, a pipeline valve that was used to release mining waste cracked, resulting in this disaster.
The mining firm reported that around three cubic metres of sludge and decantation water leaked across a five-kilometer distance into a diversion canal, with a tiny amount perhaps ending up in the Cavally River.
About 15 kg of dead fish were gathered by scientists from the Ciapol (Ivorian Anti-Pollution Centre) who were sent to the location.
Following their consumption of tainted fish and water, 185 people reported experiencing bloating, vomiting, and diarrhoea to the Zouan-Hounien prefect. In a statement, Endeavour Mining said that the situation had been contained and flatly denied any claims of significant contamination of the Cavally River or harm to the local populace.
In order to assure safety, the mining firm says it has turned down its processing facility, fixed the broken valve, and tested the river and decantation water.
On Saturday, June 28, however, Ciapol claims that there may have been another occurrence, even though the findings of the samples that were obtained are still being withheld. According to Endeavour Mining, there haven’t been any more incidents.
Local officials have warned locals not to consume tap water and have forbidden fishing until additional information is provided. In order to safeguard public health until the situation is completely evaluated and under control, a local official underlined the necessity of these preventative steps.
This incident is one in a string of unsettling occurrences at the Ity gold mine that raise concerns about how mining waste is managed and how it affects the surrounding area and populations. To guarantee the security and welfare of the impacted communities, authorities are still keeping a careful eye on the situation and working with specialists.
Source : RFI
