Senegal has decided to temporarily suspend mining operations in order to safeguard the Faleme river

Senegal has halted all mining operations for almost three years along its portion of the southeastern Faleme river. This decision was made to safeguard the environment and provide assistance to local communities that are at risk due to a surge in artisanal gold mining.

There have been significant pollution issues in the Faleme river due to mining-related dredging and chemical discharges. The river originates in the uplands of Guinea, runs along a substantial portion of Senegal’s border with Mali, and eventually joins the Senegal river.

As per the decree published on Tuesday, mining operations will be halted within a distance of 500 meters (546.81 yards) from the left bank of the river in Senegal. This suspension will be in effect until June 30, 2027.

According to a recent survey, the Senegalese Press Agency reported that the number of illegal mining sites along the Senegalese and Malian sides of the Faleme has increased to over 800, up from 600 in 2021.

According to a 2024 paper published in the Journal of Water Resource and Protection, the Faleme is in desperate need of restoration. It used to be a thriving habitat for various fish and mammals, including hippos, and played a crucial role in supporting local agriculture.