The Senegalese government is set to review contracts with mining companies that fail to meet environmental obligations, according to Minister of Energy and Mines, Birame Souleye Diop.
The Kédougou region – known for its industrial and artisanal gold mining activities – has been subject to environmental degradation and pollution over the years. Minister Diop has proposed that foreign companies allocate a portion of profits to local projects and communities, with a focus on job creation, technology transfer and long-term partnership and growth.
“Our partners in the extractive industries are obliged to respect all the clauses of the contracts and we, as a state, have the responsibility to intervene and restore public order,” said Minister Diop.
The announcement follows a directive from Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye last April to audit contracts with foreign mining, oil and gas firms.
