Fatshimetry
In the province of Bas-Uele, in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo, an environmental and human tragedy is shaking the populations bordering the Télé river. More than thirteen lives were taken during the month of May 2024, and more than a hundred people contracted an acute diarrheal illness, leaving an impressive toll of suffering and grief in its wake.
Congolese civil society (SOCICO) is sounding the alarm and pointing the finger at the pollution of the waters of the Télé River as the cause of this tragedy. Chinese nationals operating in the region are accused of irresponsible mining, leaving behind human and environmental carnage. The inhabitants of the twelve villages crossed by the Télé river, accustomed to drawing their spring water from these now polluted waters, are bearing the brunt of the devastating consequences of this illegal activity.
The SOCICO coordinator in Bas-Uele, Roger Dangu, went to the site to assess the extent of the disaster. The tests carried out confirm the presence of pollutants in the Télé river, highlighting the irresponsible practices of Chinese operators. The observation is bitter and the cry of alarm resonates across the province, calling for urgent action to put an end to this humanitarian catastrophe in the making.
Local authorities are mobilizing, aware of the seriousness of the situation. The Bas-Uele provincial assembly is working with officials in the Tshopo province to find effective solutions and prevent new deaths and illnesses. Draconian measures are being considered to stem the scourge and protect vulnerable populations in this already fragile region.
The consequences of the pollution of the Télé River go beyond the human losses and diseases caused. The ecological balance of the region is threatened, suggesting irreparable damage to the environment and local biodiversity. If the clandestine mining activities of Chinese nationals are not stopped, the worst is to be feared for the Bas-Uele region and its inhabitants.
It is imperative that immediate and concrete measures are taken to put an end to this tragedy. The Télé River, once a source of life for local communities, must not become the tomb of its inhabitants. It is time to raise the voices of those who suffer and preserve the environment for future generations. Solidarity and international cooperation are essential to confront this major challenge and prevent more lives from being sacrificed on the altar of irresponsibility and greed.
Fatshimetrie remains mobilized to inform, raise awareness and act in favor of a fairer, cleaner and more human world. Defending the environment and the rights of oppressed populations is at the heart of our commitment, and we will continue to fight tirelessly against all forms of injustice and exploitation. Join us in this vital fight for the preservation of our planet and our humanity.