Massive Mining Machine Devours Senegal's Fertile Coastline

A massive mining dredger in Senegal swallowed fertile coastal land essential for the country’s vegetable production, displacing residents, impacting tourism and threatening the region's delicate ecosystem. 

The French mining group Eramet, operating the floating factory, defended its practices, stated plans to increase mining efforts, and highlighted the economic benefits. The project employed nearly 2,000 workers, 97% of whom were Senegalese, with 48% from the local area. 

Despite environmental concerns raised by locals, including an ecolodge owner who described the area as "apocalyptic," Eramet pointed to Senegal’s ranking as the 4th largest contributor to mining revenue in the 2023 Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative report.