The water in the rivers surrounding several of the largest copper and cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is highly toxic, potentially leading to a range of health issues among the local population.
Bloomberg cites a recent report by UK-based corporate watchdog RAID and the DRC's African Resources Watch (Afrewatch) which revealed that water in four rivers near some of the country's largest mines is "hyper-acidic" or "very acidic."
The study, conducted by scientists from the University of Lubumbashi, brings attention to the concerning state of these water sources.
According to the initial findings, it appears that the condition of the four rivers has deteriorated to the point where they are no longer capable of supporting fish, and the water has become hazardous for both humans and animals.
The mining industry in Congo relies heavily on the use of large quantities of acid to extract copper and cobalt from ore.
According to the mining law, it is the responsibility of companies to ensure that toxic wastewater does not pollute the groundwater or nearby waterways.
According to the report, extensive research conducted over 19 months in 25 villages and towns near five major mines reveals a concerning trend.
The survey revealed that a significant number of farmers and fishermen reported a significant decline in their harvests and catches in recent years.
The researchers interviewed communities located near mines owned by Glencore, Eurasian Resources Group backed by Kazakhstan, and China's Zijin Mining Group and CMOC Group.
According to the report, the companies that Afrewatch and RAID interviewed blamed historical pollution from older mines, contamination from artisanal mining, and other activities for the condition of the region's water.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished
