The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV) is set to support communities along the recently polluted Saramacca River in developing alternative food and income sources. Residents will have access to training, guidance, and financial support for initiatives such as establishing chicken and fish farms. This measure aims to mitigate the impact on villages that rely on the river for their food supply and income.
Additionally, a core group will be formed to assess the problems and consequences faced by each community, propose solutions, and help coordinate the implementation of measures. This group will include representatives from the affected areas, the district commission of Para, LVV, and the Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor.
President Jennifer Simons announced these measures during a visit to Pikin Saron, where she met with a delegation from the National Environmental Authority (NMA) and traditional leaders. Representatives from Pikin Saron, Bigi Poika, Tibiti, Harlem, Santigron, and surrounding communities were informed about the investigation into fish mortality in the Saramacca River.
The investigation revealed high concentrations of chemical substances, heavy metals, and cyanide in the river water and in the fish examined. Residents are therefore advised to refrain from using river water or fish from the river and to avoid swimming in the water.
Traditional leaders will receive a copy of the research report. According to the government, the investigation cost over 50,000 US dollars, with support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Some of the analyses had to be conducted in French Guiana.
Simons further announced that research will soon be conducted in all areas where gold mining takes place, urging communities to cooperate in this effort. Discussions also covered measures regarding a potential lower water level during the dry season and plans for energy supply.
The government has expressed its intention to better regulate the gold sector. The issuance of new concessions has been temporarily halted, and existing concessions must be made public. According to the government, discussions with concession holders should lead to a more transparent and sustainable gold sector.
In summary, the LVV’s initiative aims to provide alternative livelihoods for communities affected by pollution in the Saramacca River, while also addressing broader environmental and regulatory issues related to gold mining in the region.
Source: dwtonline.com
