Senegal to Review Mining Contracts Over Environmental Concerns

The Senegalese government is set to review contracts with mining companies that fail to meet environmental obligations, according to Minister of Energy and Mines, Birame Souleye Diop.

The Kédougou region – known for its industrial and artisanal gold mining activities – has been subject to environmental degradation and pollution over the years. Minister Diop has proposed that foreign companies allocate a portion of profits to local projects and communities, with a focus on job creation, technology transfer and long-term partnership and growth.

“Our partners in the extractive industries are obliged to respect all the clauses of the contracts and we, as a state, have the responsibility to intervene and restore public order,” said Minister Diop.

The announcement follows a directive from Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye last April to audit contracts with foreign mining, oil and gas firms.