Women Protest Mining Hazards Threatening Livestock, Livelihoods in Bauchi

Women from Gada Biyu and nearby mining communities in Bauchi State, Northeast Nigeria, gathered on Monday to protest against unregulated mining activities endangering both human health and livestock.

The demonstration, led by Matthias Ugonma, Executive Director of the Media Advocacy on Climate Change Initiative, highlights the severe impact of mining on these communities.

The women, deeply concerned by the toll mining is taking on their environment and livestock, marched to the Bauchi office of the Federal Ministry of Mines. They demanded stricter enforcement of mining regulations to protect their land, animals, and community health.

Jilima Bishari, representing Matthias Ugonma, emphasized the urgent need for intervention. She spoke of the escalating risks mining poses, particularly to women, children, and livestock, as pollution and blasting operations disrupt daily life. “Our livestock are suffering alongside us, with water pollution and contaminated grazing lands affecting their health,” she explained, urging the government to prioritize the safety of both people and animals in these regions.

Protesters voiced concerns over contaminated water sources that livestock rely on, the deafening noise of rock blasting, and the increased mortality of animals due to exposure to mining pollutants. Many local families depend on livestock for their livelihoods, and the community fears that ongoing mining operations could decimate their herds, stripping them of economic stability.

The women also demanded the government address child labor issues and support sustainable mining practices that would prevent further harm to livestock and ensure safe environments for their communities.

In response, Tukur Ibrahim, Director of Mines and Surveillance at the Federal Ministry of Mines in Bauchi State, assured the protesters that the ministry would promptly assess the situation and work toward addressing their concerns.