A new report by the Environmental Investigation Agency and PremiCongo raises serious concerns about pollution and public health risks linked to operations at the Tenke Fungurume Mining (TFM) site in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The report, Toxic Transition, documents large emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO₂) from TFM’s processing facilities since 2023. According to the investigation, these emissions are causing severe air pollution affecting nearby communities.
Residents interviewed during the investigation reported respiratory illnesses, nosebleeds, miscarriages and other health problems. The report also highlights environmental damage and the displacement of thousands of people living near the mine. TFM is owned by CMOC Group, currently the largest producer of cobalt in the world. Cobalt from the mine enters global supply chains used for electric vehicles and batteries.
Civil society organisations say the findings confirm long-standing concerns about pollution, weak oversight and lack of transparency in the mining sector in the DRC.
Community members have reported polluted air, growing health problems and forced displacement affecting 4,289 people from the Kibalasani–Kalweji Road community.
NGOs and community representatives are calling for urgent action to stop pollution and protect affected communities.
They urge authorities and companies to:
- stop harmful pollution from mining operations
- establish independent environmental monitoring
ensure public access to pollution and health data - enforce Congolese environmental laws
ensure consultation and fair compensation for affected communities.
Cobalt from TFM is used in global supply chains for electric vehicles and renewable technologies. Civil society organisations stress that the energy transition must not come at the cost of human health, environmental protection and community rights.
Signatories:
- ADDH — Action pour la Défense des Droits Humains
- AFREWATCH — African Resources Watch
- IBGDH — Initiative pour la Bonne Gouvernance et les Droits Humains
- IPDHOR — Initiative pour la Promotion des Droits de l’Homme et la Réconciliation
- IPIS — International Peace Information Service
- OEARSE — Observatoire d’Études et d’Appui à la Responsabilité Sociale et Environnementale
- PREMICONGO — Protection des Écorégions de Miombo au Congo
- RAID — Rights and Accountability in Development
- Resource Matters
Photo Credit: EIA
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