2023-07-11 19:40:21
In 2020, the group produced 85,000 tons of zircon ore, exported mainly to the European market. The objective of the Emerging Senegal Plan is to reach an annual production of 90,000 tons. Mining operations involve the dredging of sand and then separating the ore.
However, this project raises concerns, especially in Lompoul, where the next phase of zircon exploitation is due to start in 2023. Concerns are raised regarding the consequences on the local ecosystem and agricultural activities in the region. Questions also arise on the future of tourist operators in the Lompoul desert, as well as on the compensation of displaced populations.
Criticisms are leveled at the lack of communication, consultation and public debate surrounding the exploitation of zircon. Associations and coalitions, such as the Walli Daan Association and the “Publish What You Pay” coalition, point to the need for greater transparency and for the concerns of local populations to be taken into account.
In addition, another zircon exploitation project carried out by the Australian company Astron in Niafrang, in Casamance, is also meeting resistance from certain sections of the population and the independence movement MFDC.
In addition to environmental concerns, dangers to human health are also reported. Lung and respiratory diseases caused by air pollution, including sulfur fumes and dust from quarries and transport trucks, pose real risks to local communities. The many tank trucks carrying highly flammable products are also a source of concern in terms of safety.
It is crucial to promote an open and inclusive debate, as well as a careful assessment of the environmental and social impacts related to zircon mining in Senegal, in order to protect local communities and ensure responsible exploitation of the country’s natural resources. .
The Board of Directors currently comprises 18 members. Its composition is as follows:
M. Alilat ANTSELEVE-OYIMA;
Ms. Christel BORIES (Chairman and Chief Executive Officer)*;
Mr. Emeric BURIN des ROZIERS (independent director);
CEIR, represented by Ms. Nathalie de LA FOURNIERE;
Ms. Christine COIGNARD (independent director);
Mr. François CORBIN (independent director), lead director;
Ms Héloïse DUVAL;
Mr. Jean-Yves GILET;
Mme Manoelle LEPOUTRE;
Mr. Ghislain LESCUYER (independent director);
Ms. Miriam MAES (independent director);
Mr. Nicolas NOEL (director representing employees)
Mr. Franck PECQUEUX (director representing employees);
Ms. Catherine RONGE (independent director);
Ms Sonia SIKORAV (independent director);
SORAME, represented by Mr. Jérôme DUVAL;
Mr. Romain VALENTY, representative of the State;
Mr. Jean-Philippe VOLLMER.
1689105725
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