Located in the heart of the Copperbelt of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kolwezi is emblematic of intensive mining activities, particularly for copper and cobalt.
Studies have shown elevated levels of cobalt, manganese, and uranium in the environment and in the residents of Kolwezi.
Human ConsequencesLocal populations face various impacts related to mining:Public Health: Exposure to pollutants from mining activities is associated with health issues such as respiratory diseases and intoxications.
An estimated 150,000 to 200,000 artisanal miners work in cobalt mines in the DRC, with approximately 2,000 miners dying each year due to hazardous conditions.
The continuous expansion of mining activities raises questions about the city’s long-term viability.
Author(s): expobeton-newsletter.net
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