For Lefaso.net, Burkina Faso must better regulate artisanal gold mining
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Lefaso.net
In an editorial, Lefaso.net says it is necessary to better organise artisanal gold mining in Burkina Faso, following the expulsion of Burkinabe gold miners from Siguiri. The outlet believes Ouagadougou should have been warned through diplomatic channels.
For Lefaso.net, Burkina Faso must better regulate artisanal gold mining in order to limit the risks to populations and the environment. The outlet believes that events in the Siguiri region of Guinea show the consequences of unorganised artisanal mining.
Lefaso.net recalls that the operation launched by the Guinean authorities against unauthorised artisanal mining activities led to the departure of many miners, including several thousand Burkinabe. The outlet believes that consultation between the Guinean and Burkinabe authorities would have made it possible to organise their return under better conditions. It also stresses that unregulated sites can degrade farmland and pollute watercourses through ore washing and the use of hazardous products.
The position comes after the suspension of artisanal gold mining in Siguiri announced on 29 October and several operations against illegal gold mining carried out in November. Guinea suspends all artisanal gold mining in Siguiri
