Mercury fuels gold mining in Senegal. And it’s poisoning the people who use it

[Assembler]

Mercury fuels gold mining in Senegal. And it’s poisoning the people who use it​

In Senegal’s gold-rich Kedougou region, women and children face serious health risks from mercury exposure used in gold processing. Despite Senegal’s 2016 pledge to reduce mercury use, the toxic metal remains widespread due to cost, convenience and lack of safer alternatives.
Published 6:05 PM PDT, May 12, 2025

Mercury fuels gold mining in Senegal. And it’s poisoning the people who use it

In Senegal’s gold-rich Kedougou region, women and children face serious health risks from mercury exposure used in gold processing.

apnews.com

 

[Assembler]

“I know mercury isn’t good for your health — that’s why I don’t drink the water it comes into contact with,” she said. “I only process small amounts of gold, so there’s no danger.”

But even small-scale exposure can carry serious risks.

Mercury fuels gold mining in Senegal. And it’s poisoning the people who use it

In Senegal’s gold-rich Kedougou region, women and children face serious health risks from mercury exposure used in gold processing.

apnews.com