MINING-HAZARD: WOMEN IN GADA BIYU MINING COMMUNITIES IN BAUCHI STATE PROTEST AGAINST IRRESPONSIBLE MINING ACTIVITIES 07-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu Women from Gada Biyu and nearby mining communities in Bauchi State, have protested against irresponsible mining activities posing threat to their health and livelihood.
The women, led by officials of the Media Advocacy on Climate Change Initiative, demanded a stronger enforcement of mining regulations in their communities, due to the severity of the environmental damages and health risks ssuffered.
The protesters detailed their grievances, to include, the pollution and contamination of water supplies, harm to livestock, and the deafening impact of daily rock blasting.
They also raised concerns about child labor on mining sites, demanded an end to the exploitation of minors in their community, and emphasised the urgent need for a sustainable approach that enhance their health and safety.
The Executive Director, Media Advocacy on Climate Change Initiative, Ms Ugonma Matthias, represented by Mrs Jilima Bishari, who told the representative of the Federal Ministry of Mines in Bauchi State, that the unguided mining had grossly affected the lives of women and children in Gada Biyu and its environs, and called for immediate enforcement to safeguard their wellbeing.
The, Director, Mines and Surveillance with the Federal Ministry of Mines in Bauchi State, Mallam Tukur Ibrahim promised to launch an immediate assessment of the situation and address the protesters’ demands.