Alleged Pollution in Kolwezi: National Assembly Seized of a Motion Against Ruashi Mining
A Situation Deemed Alarming
The National Assembly has been seized of an information motion concerning the environmental and health consequences attributed to the activities of the mining company Ruashi Mining in the city of Kolwezi, in Lualaba. Initiated by national deputy Eddy Ilunga Mbuyu, this move aims to obtain government involvement in response to the nuisances denounced by local communities.
Before the plenary session, the elected official described a worrying situation in the Ilungu neighborhood, where residents have reportedly been exposed for several months to the effects of pollution generated by the company’s activities.
Measures Still Awaited
According to the deputy, environmental authorities were alerted three months ago. After a field visit, the Minister of Environment reportedly recommended the urgent relocation of the affected populations. Two provincial commissions were then set up, one tasked with identifying the people to be relocated and the other with monitoring their medical care.
However, Eddy Ilunga Mbuyu believes that these measures are taking too long to be implemented, while the consequences are reportedly already affecting the health and living conditions of residents.
“Children are bleeding, roofs are being destroyed, perforated by these acids. The company has not yet relocated people, but it continues its activities,” he declared.
Compensation for Damages
Beyond relocation, the elected official is calling for compensation for the damage suffered by the exposed populations. He believes that possible long-term health consequences must be taken into account and that the company should assume its responsibilities if the allegations are confirmed.
The deputy also mentioned the blasting activities of Zijin Commus SAS. According to him, explosions linked to mining operations are said to be responsible for cracks and other damage observed in several homes in the Gécamines and Musonoi townships, as well as in the Biashara and Shibuki neighborhoods.
An Investigation with Concerning Findings
These denunciations come a few weeks after the publication of an investigation into the environmental impacts of Ruashi Mining’s activities in Kolwezi. The document reports complaints related to noise pollution, chemical odors, industrial smoke and the deterioration of some homes.
Cases of respiratory problems, skin irritation and nosebleeds have also reportedly been recorded among neighboring communities. The investigation also mentions accelerated corrosion of roofs, damage to house walls, the drying up of vegetable crops and the presence of acidic rainwater.
To date, Ruashi Mining has not yet publicly commented on these accusations or on the motion brought before the National Assembly.
Héritier Maila / DeskEco
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