*We have started Experiencing The Negative Effects of Underground Kimberlite Mining in Koidu City with Earth Tremor and Ground Wrench.*
The earth tremor and ground wrench experienced in Koidu City, Kono District, yesterday highlight the far-reaching and detrimental impacts of underground Kimberlite mining activities conducted by Octea Mining Limited. While the mining company may argue that its operations contribute to economic development, the negative effects on the environment, human health, and social infrastructure are profound and cannot be overlooked.
The underground Kimberlite mining disrupts the earth’s geological structure,
environmental impact. The tremor experienced yesterday is the result of excessive drilling, blasting, and excavation activities that has weaken the underground rock formations. These activities can lead to seismic disturbances and increase the likelihood of more severe earthquakes either now or in the future, God forbids. What I am saying is that, the destruction of natural landforms and ecosystems is now negatively impacting the district’s biodiversity.
Looking at the health hazards, the operations of the mining releases harmful particles and chemicals into the air and water. The dust from the blasting and excavation activities pollutes the air, and has and still exposing we, the residents to respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. Toxic chemicals like cyanide and mercury often find their way into local water sources, posing serious health risks, including cancer and developmental disorders in children. Furthermore, the tremor yesterday must have cause structural damage to homes, increasing the risk of injuries or fatalities in the future.
Furthermore most of us may not know that kimberlite mining operations consumes vast amounts of water, often draining resources that local residents rely on for drinking, cooking, and agriculture as we are experiencing water shortage, particularly in the dry seasons of every year. The contamination of water sources due to chemical runoff further exacerbates water scarcity in the city. Residents are left with little access to clean water, creating additional burdens on families already struggling to meet basic needs, children late to go to schools because of that. The little said about the increased typhoid cases in district, the better.
In the area of infrastructure, the mining operations have failed to improve the district’s infrastructure. Roads remain in poor condition, making transportation difficult and hindering economic development. Instead of building a resilient community, the company’s focus on resource extraction which exacerbates the district’s underdevelopment. The recent tremor has likely worsened the state of already fragile roads, buildings, and other infrastructure. Sad!
Residents near mining sites are often forced to relocate without adequate compensation or support. This displacement leads to the loss of ancestral lands, cultural heritage, and social ties. Relocated residents are deprived of many social amenities, good healthcare system, good roads, to name but few. So, the tremor last night serves as a stark reminder of the instability and risks associated with living near mining zones. I pray for the Almighty’s intervention.
It is frustrating that, Octea Mining Limited has made little effort to invest in the well-being of the people in Koidu City. The absence of meaningful CSR initiatives, such as providing healthcare facilities, education, or employment opportunities, has left the community in a state of perpetual neglect. We are being treated like slaves in our own land. By right, each resident in Kono deserves monthly compensation because of the harms the company is causing on the lives of Kono people. Imagine, most of our houses were built with mud bricks, the concretes houses are over fifty years, yet they are not enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, they are expose to more danger than expected. It is sadden to note that the people of Kono are not safe any longer.
The earth wrench experienced in Koidu City is a dire warning of the risks posed by the activities of octea’s underground Kimberlite mining operations. While the economic benefits of mining may be celebrated by some, the overwhelming evidence of its negative impacts on the environment, health, and social infrastructure demands urgent action. Residents and local authorities must hold Octea Mining Limited accountable for its operations and push for sustainable practices that prioritize the well-being of the community. Without significant intervention, the negative effects of mining will continue to overshadow any potential benefits, leaving Koidu City and its residents vulnerable to further harm.
*Justice Moitenga*
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