Mozambique’s Manica Governor Calls for Action to Mitigate Mining Damage

The Governor of Manica, Francisca Tomás, has raised concerns about the environmental and health impacts of unregulated gold mining in the district. Mining activities have led to pollution and jeopardized public health and agricultural productivity. The governor is advocating for collaborative efforts to reduce these impacts and enhance healthcare accessibility for residents, aiming for one doctor per 8,220 inhabitants.

In Mozambique’s Manica district, unchecked gold mining activities are leading to significant environmental degradation, which jeopardizes public health, agricultural productivity, and educational opportunities. The exploitation of natural resources, coupled with ineffective extraction methods, raises alarms for local leadership, particularly for the provincial governor, Francisca Tomás.

Governor Tomás has voiced concerns regarding mining companies’ regular breaches of environmental regulations, which include altering river courses and degrading water quality. She is advocating for collaborative efforts aimed at minimizing the adverse impacts of mining operations in the region, particularly in Manica.

A pressing issue involves the use of mercury in ore washing and the improper disposal of mining waste, which culminates in river and soil pollution, thereby endangering the health of the populace, wildlife, and the surrounding environment. Governor Tomás emphasized the importance of improving access to healthcare services, highlighting the objective to enhance healthcare infrastructure and reduce the ratio of medical professionals to residents. “Our desire is to achieve a situation of one doctor for every 8,220 inhabitants. To this end, we intend to build health posts in all locations and we will do the same in settlements with larger population centres,” she stated, detailing plans to enhance local health access.

The governor’s remarks underscore the harmful consequences of mining activities in Manica, emphasizing the urgency of addressing environmental and health concerns. Her commitment to improving healthcare access reflects a broader strategy to ensure the well-being of the population while seeking to mitigate the negative effects of mining practices. Through coordinated action, there is potential to safeguard both the environment and public health in the region.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com