ARTISANAL AND SMALL-SCALE GOLD AND DIAMOND MINING, WITH RELATIVE IMPACTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT IN THE FORESTED AREAS OF CAMEROON: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This paper is aimed at critically analysing the legal framework on the environmental impacts of artisanal and small-scale gold[i] and diamond mining in The Ngoyla-Mintom Forest Massif (NMF) and the Sangha Tri-National Park (TNS) Landscape[ii] located in Cameroon only. Small-scale mining includes enterprises or individuals that employ workers for mining, but generally still using manually-intensive methods, working with hand tools. However, studies in ASM indicates that the main impacts are: deforestation and land degradation; open pits causing human and animal traps and health hazards (including acting as mosquito breeding grounds due to stagnant water collection after being abandoned by the miners); mercury runoff from gold amalgamation; waste accumulation from inefficient extraction; dust and noise pollution; underground instability and long-term hazards.[iii] Realistically, are the existing laws and regulations governing ASM in Cameroon effectively implemented and complied with? This raises serious concern about the benefits that accrue to them from this age-old activity. Local miners in The Ngoyla-Mintom Forest (NMF) and the Sangha Tri-National Park (TNS) Landscape are generally not aware of the provisions in the mining code of 2016, the forestry law of 1994 and other affected laws. There is no doubt that with appropriate laws and policies, when duly implemented and complied with, ASM can protect our environment and improve the lives of those who are involved in this activity as while as those of the local communities.