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🇨🇩 DR Congo /Environment & Climate

SOMIKA Accused of Polluting Kasonta River in Kipushi

From Radio Okapi · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Context piece
  • The Human Rights in Development Institute (IRDH) accuses the Société minière du Katanga (SOMIKA) of polluting the Kasonta river in Kipushi.
  • IRDH claims SOMIKA discharged acidic effluents in April, contaminating the river used by locals for water, fishing, and irrigation.
  • SOMIKA denies the accusations, stating analyses show no pollution in the Kibunduka river.

The Human Rights in Development Institute (IRDH) has accused the Société minière du Katanga (SOMIKA) of environmental pollution, alleging that the mining company discharged acidic effluents near the village of Kwampisha in Kipushi territory.

The NGO stated in a communiqué that these acidic substances flooded a village road before flowing into the Kasonta river. This river is a vital water source for the local population, supplying their drinking water, fish ponds, and irrigation canals. IRDH warns of significant risks to agriculture, as well as human and animal health.

This is not the first time SOMIKA has faced similar accusations, according to IRDH. The organization highlighted past allegations of environmental misconduct against the company.

However, SOMIKA has rejected these claims. Patrick Barudi, the company's human resources manager, asserted that analyses have been conducted and found no pollution in the Kibunduka river. The company maintains its operations are not causing the alleged environmental damage.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Radio Okapi in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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