A decade has passed since the inception of the large-scale mine in Madagascar, and the impact on local communities has been devastating. Reports indicate that livelihoods and income have suffered significant losses, up to 47 percent of revenues pre-mining. This is in stark contrast to sustainable development imperatives that were initially promised.
Biodiversity targets set by the mining company, QMM, have come under scrutiny since Rio Tinto abandoned its Net Positive Impact (NPI) mandate in 2016. The environmental impact of the mine has been severe, with contamination of local waterways leading to food insecurity, health challenges, and livelihood losses among vulnerable populations.
One of the most concerning aspects of the mine’s operations is the breach of an environmental buffer zone in 2014, which resulted in mine tailings being deposited on the bed of Lake Besaroy. This has exposed the local estuary to toxic contaminants, including elevated levels of uranium and lead in downstream water sources.
Health issues have been reported among villagers living near the mine, with high blood lead levels discovered in some individuals. Additionally, there have been multiple mine tailings dam failures, leading to fish deaths, fishing bans, and months of conflict.
The wastewater from the mine contains high levels of aluminum and cadmium, along with increased acidity, potentially causing acid mine drainage and further harm to the environment. Despite attempts to address these issues with a new treatment plant, concerns remain about the presence of other heavy metal contaminants and the risks posed by toxic sludge.
Transparency has been a major issue, with the company denying any negative environmental impact and refusing demands for independent water impact assessments. Investors are increasingly concerned about water issues at the QMM mine and other Rio Tinto sites.
Despite the promises of economic benefits to local communities, it is clear that only certain groups have benefited, while many have become poorer and face greater risks to their health, human rights, and livelihoods. The legacy of advocacy for transparency and human rights in the Anosy region continues, as communities struggle to hold Rio Tinto accountable for the impacts of its mining operations.
In response to these concerns, a spokesperson for Rio Tinto emphasized the company’s commitment to conducting business with integrity and transparency, and to addressing specific issues raised by community members. They highlighted efforts to support local communities and engage in dialogue to mitigate the impacts of operations.
Yvonne Orengo, an independent communications consultant and Director of the Andrew Lees Trust (ALT UK), has been actively involved in research and advocacy on QMM issues for thirty years. Her work in southern Madagascar has given her firsthand insight into the challenges faced by local communities affected by the mining operations.
