Gold Miners in Suriname Defy Eviction, Demand Dialogue with Zijin and Government
Gold miners operating within the Rosebel-Zijin concession area in Suriname have firmly stated their refusal to leave, viewing themselves not as illegal miners but as stakeholders deserving of consultation. This stance, declared at a meeting in Paranam on Tuesday evening, complicates an already sensitive situation and has sparked political debate.
Political Response and Calls for Negotiation
The planned eviction by police prompted immediate reaction within Suriname’s National Assembly. Silvana Afonsoewa (NDP) advocated for a dialogue-first approach, emphasizing the potential social repercussions and risk of conflict. Following discussions among party leaders, Rabin Parmessar (NDP) announced that representatives from the mining community will meet with the Ministers of Natural Resources and Justice & Police on Wednesday afternoon to seek a peaceful resolution.
Recent Tragedy Fuels Tensions
The miners’ resistance is partly fueled by a recent fatal incident within the concession area, where a young gold seeker lost his life. Miriam Asadanoe, who initiated the meeting in Paranam, has been actively supporting the victim’s family. She highlights the long-standing complexities of the Rosebel issue, stemming from the concession area’s location within a village, making clear legal ownership a matter of debate.
Miners Seek Recognition and Collaboration
Approximately 100 gold miners attended the Paranam meeting, presenting proposals for collaboration with Zijin Mining and establishing guidelines for orderly operations within the area. Asadanoe plans to compile these proposals into a report for President Jennifer Simons, emphasizing the miners’ desire for recognition and a constructive dialogue, rather than confrontation.
Zijin Mining and the Rosebel Operation
The Rosebel gold mine is jointly owned by Zijin Mining (95%) and the government of Suriname (5%). Located in the Brokopondo District, approximately 80 kilometers south of Paramaribo, the mine has been in production since 2004. Zijin Mining, a multinational group, is involved in the exploration and development of gold, copper, zinc, and lithium. From 2004 to 2021, Rosebel produced a total of 5.65 million ounces of gold (approximately 176 tonnes), averaging 314,000 ounces (about 10 tonnes) annually.
FAQ
- What is the main issue? Gold miners in the Rosebel-Zijin concession area are refusing to leave without a dialogue with Zijin Mining and the government.
- Who is involved in the negotiations? Representatives of the gold miners will meet with the Ministers of Natural Resources and Justice & Police.
- Who owns the Rosebel gold mine? Zijin Mining (95%) and the government of Suriname (5%).
Pro Tip: Understanding the historical context of land ownership and resource extraction is crucial when analyzing conflicts like this one. Often, these disputes are rooted in long-standing issues of access and equity.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
