Mekelle፡Telaviv, Nairobi, Pretoria, London, (Tigray Herald)
Urgent Appeal: The Unfolding Gold Mining Controversy in Qola Tembein Woreda and Its Impending Consequences
Introduction:
Qola Tembein Woreda, an area rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, is currently at the heart of a contentious situation involving illegal gold mining. Traditionally, Tabia Mewtsa’e, a region renowned for its ecological and cultural significance, has been protected by the local community. However, recent developments indicate that gold mining activities are now taking place in the area—activities that threaten both the environment and the well-being of the people.
At the center of this controversy is General Hintsa, head of Division 60 of the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF), who has reportedly been involved in facilitating or supporting these illegal mining operations. This has raised significant concerns about the broader implications of such actions, both for the local community and the environment.
The Situation in Qola Tembein Woreda:
For many years, Tabia Mewtsa’e was regarded as a sacred area, held in high esteem by the people of Qola Tembein Woreda. However, recent reports suggest that certain groups, including General Hintsa and others, have been instrumental in initiating gold mining projects within the region. These operations have begun to erode the community’s trust in both local authorities and military leaders.
Recently, officials visited Guya, a town near the mining site, to inspect or support the operations. However, the lack of transparency, clear planning, and official permits has fueled concerns within the community about the hidden agendas behind these moves. Many local residents feel that their voices are being ignored, and the community has been left to watch as illegal mining activities unfold without their consent.
General Hintsa’s Role in the Illegal Mining Activities:
The involvement of General Hintsa, the head of TDF Division 60, in the illegal gold mining operations has shocked many within the community. Known for his prominent role in the Tigray Defense Forces, General Hintsa has traditionally been seen as a protector of the Tigrayan people. However, his alleged involvement in supporting or facilitating illegal mining has led to serious questions about his true motives.
Reports indicate that General Hintsa and some associates are directly or indirectly profiting from the gold mining activities in Qola Tembein. His involvement complicates the issue further, as many now perceive him as working in the interests of private gain rather than community welfare.
The local population, already concerned about the lack of transparency in these mining operations, now faces the added challenge of questioning the integrity of their military leaders. The role of such high-ranking figures in the illegal mining business raises serious concerns about the collusion between political, military, and business interests. This only exacerbates the sense of betrayal felt by many in the community.
The Environmental Impact: A Looming Catastrophe
One of the most pressing concerns regarding these mining activities is the devastating environmental impact. Illegal mining has long been known to cause significant damage to the environment.
Deforestation: Gold mining often requires clearing large swaths of forest land, leading to habitat destruction for local wildlife and the loss of carbon-absorbing trees.
Soil erosion: The removal of vegetation and topsoil weakens the land, making it prone to erosion and flooding.
Water pollution: Harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide, used in the gold extraction process, can seep into nearby rivers and groundwater sources, polluting the water supply for both humans and animals.
These environmental hazards not only threaten the local ecosystems but also jeopardize the livelihoods of the people who depend on the land for agriculture and water. If these mining operations continue unchecked, the long-term effects on the environment will be irreversible.
Pollution and Climate Change: Further Risks
The illegal mining operations are contributing to more than just local environmental degradation. The deforestation and soil destruction occurring in Qola Tembein are adding to the global climate crisis. The loss of carbon-sequestering trees and the release of carbon dioxide from the land are contributing to global warming. The damage to the ecosystem is both local and global, creating a vicious cycle of environmental damage.
Moreover, the unchecked use of toxic chemicals like mercury is having an immediate impact on the health of the local population. These substances pose a serious risk to both the miners and the surrounding communities, leading to chronic illnesses, especially among children.
The Role of Illicit Actors in the Mining Operations
The push for illegal gold mining in Qola Tembein is largely driven by certain powerful individuals and business elites, including General Hintsa, who see the mining industry as a means of quick profit. While these individuals may benefit financially, the local population suffers the social and environmental costs of these activities.
The presence of military figures like General Hintsa further complicates the situation, as their involvement suggests that the military may be providing protection for these illegal operations. This has created a culture of impunity, where individuals believe they can bypass the law for personal gain.
The Call for Accountability and Transparent Solutions
In light of these developments, the community leaders, activists, and residents of Qola Tembein Woreda are urging both local authorities and national bodies to take swift and decisive action. They are calling for:
Investigation into General Hintsa’s role and other military and political figures involved in the illegal mining activities.
The closure of illegal mines and an immediate halt to any further mining operations until proper assessments are done.
Full transparency in all decision-making processes, with community engagement and environmental protection as top priorities.
Stronger enforcement of mining laws to ensure that all mining activities are regulated and sustainable.
Conclusion: Protecting Qola Tembein’s Future
The future of Qola Tembein Woreda hangs in the balance. On one side, the promise of short-term financial gain from gold mining; on the other, the long-term survival of the community and its environment. The involvement of General Hintsa in these illegal mining operations adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.
If these illegal activities are allowed to continue unchecked, the environmental and social consequences will be devastating. However, by holding those responsible accountable and promoting sustainable development, the people of Qola Tembein can safeguard their land and heritage for future generations.
