Moanda: HRW Alerts on Health Risks Linked to Perenco Activities

Human Rights Watch (HRW) is raising alarms about the severe health risks faced by residents living near oil and gas operations by the company Perenco in Moanda, located in the Kongo-Central province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. An investigation by the NGO points to multiple sources of pollution impacting the local environment and population.

According to Agathe Sarfati, a lead researcher with HRW's Environment division, the findings are based on substantial evidence. This includes satellite imagery analysis and exclusive photos from the operational sites. "These proofs reveal multiple sources of pollution: air, soil, and water," Sarfati stated. She detailed that gas is flared as close as 80 meters from homes, and the company has been observed burning waste in open-air sites, posing significant health dangers. Furthermore, inadequate site maintenance leads to frequent oil leaks, contaminating both soil and water sources.

Local residents and medical professionals have reported concerning symptoms such as vomiting, headaches, and dizziness. HRW also highlighted the potential for chronic illnesses stemming from exposure to heavy metals. The NGO asserts that Perenco possesses environmental data related to these issues but has refused to disclose it. The Congolese government, which commissioned an environmental audit over 18 months ago, has yet to publish its findings. Perenco has stated it will respond to the allegations in the coming days.

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These proofs reveal multiple sources of pollution: air, soil, and water. The air is polluted by the burning of gas, sometimes only 80 meters from homes. We have also collected photos and videos showing that the company burns its waste in the open, which is particularly dangerous for health. Finally, the lack of maintenance of the sites leads to recurrent oil leaks, contaminating soils and water sources.