CASMIA G Platform Accuses TFM of Pollution in Fungurume

Four villages in the Fungurume territory of the Lualaba province are reportedly suffering from toxic emissions originating from Tenge Fungurume Mining (TFM) factories 10 and 11K. CASMIA G, a platform of civil society organizations focused on natural resources, has accused the mining company of environmental pollution.

A 21-page report by CASMIA G indicates that TFM's factories are situated near the affected villages. The organization states that local populations are experiencing severe consequences on their agriculture, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. Shadrack Mukad, the national coordinator for CASMIA G, highlighted a drastic decline in agricultural yields.

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A cornfield that produced 150 to 200 buckets of corn before these factories were installed. Today, it is difficult to produce or harvest even 25 or 30 buckets from that area. It's truly serious! Cabbages and vegetable fields produce absolutely nothing. Eggplants produce nothing. You find banana trees that are completely stunted. Instead of growing, the banana trees are shrinking. And this is serious!

"A cornfield that produced 150 to 200 buckets of corn before these factories were installed. Today, it is difficult to produce or harvest even 25 or 30 buckets from that area. It's truly serious! Cabbages and vegetable fields produce absolutely nothing. Eggplants produce nothing. You find banana trees that are completely stunted. Instead of growing, the banana trees are shrinking. And this is serious!" Mukad stated. He also noted the rapid deterioration of corrugated iron roofing sheets, requiring replacement within six months.

Furthermore, Mukad described how women suffer from severe itching when using water sources for washing, and residents are forced to stay indoors for hours when the factories operate due to the noxious fumes. CASMIA G claims to have alerted TFM to the alleged pollution without response. The organization has also engaged provincial authorities, prompting the governor to instruct four ministries to investigate the allegations. TFM has promised to issue a statement on the matter soon.

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When, in the morning or evening, they turn on these furnaces or factories, people have to lock themselves in their houses for two or three hours, until the smoke disappears. So, it itches, it smells bad, even inside houses. There is an unhealthy environment, an unlivable environment.