2024-02-10 22:07:07
In a world where gold shines for its value, illegal gold panning has taken on a worrying scale, raising major environmental, economic and social issues. From French Guiana to the vast lands of Ghana, the plundering of this precious metal often escapes the control of authorities, leading to deforestation, pollution and instability. At the heart of this dark picture, a glimmer of hope is emerging in Guinea, thanks to the diligent efforts of Tidiane Koita, head of the Union of Gold Miners of Guinea. Its approach, anchored in regularization and accountability, presents a striking contrast to the fierce and often ineffective struggles observed elsewhere.
The situation in French Guiana
In French Guiana, illegal gold panning is an alarming problem. According to the commander of the region’s gendarmerie interviewed on France Info in December 2023, between seven and ten tons of gold are illegally extracted each year. The phenomenon, exacerbated by the significant increase in the price of gold, causes devastating environmental damage. The massive use of mercury, banned in France since 2006, poisons ecosystems and local populations. Despite the efforts made by Operation Harpie, launched in 2008, which mobilizes 300 gendarmes and soldiers daily, illegal gold panning persists, fueled by a thriving underground economy and the ease of resupplying equipment from Suriname. The fight is proving complex, combining environmental, health and security issues.
The case of Ghana and the limits of government action
In Ghana, the situation is just as worrying. President Nana Akufo-Addo, despite his strong commitments against illegal gold mining, faces a situation that continues to deteriorate. Ghana, the world’s second largest cocoa producer, is seeing its primary forests disappear at an alarming rate, mainly due to illegal gold panning, known locally as “galamsey”. These activities not only exacerbate deforestation but also pollute waterways with dangerous heavy metals. The credibility of government efforts is being tested, both by the population and the international community, calling into question the real political will to fight effectively against this scourge.
The Guinean model: the Union of Orpartisans of Guinea and Tidiane Koita
But Guinea offers a contrasting model. Under the leadership of Tidiane Koita and the Union Nationale des Orpailleurs de Guinée, the country approaches gold mining with a structured and responsible approach.
Regularization efforts, environmental protection measures, the establishment of a land register, the supervision of small and medium-sized mining companies and the fight against corruption have made it possible to effectively channel the sector in Guinea, and this , in just a few years. A management model that inspires the countries of the region. In addition, Tidiane Koita’s initiatives, particularly through her foundation for aid and development, FOTIKAD, illustrate the positive impact that balanced and involved management of the gold sector can have on the local economy and the environment.
Illegal gold mining, with its devastating consequences, remains a major challenge. Nevertheless, Guinea, under the leadership of Tidiane Koita, demonstrates that a structured and ethical approach can transform gold mining into a lever for sustainable economic development. This Guinean model could well inspire other nations facing challenges. similar, illustrating that it is possible to reconcile natural resources and social responsibility.