Bondo: Residents protest proposed gold leaching plant

Led by Fredrick Oduo, the residents condemned the project, warning that the chemicals used in the leaching process could contaminate local water sources, harm livestock, and pose a danger to human health. They claimed similar projects elsewhere had resulted in the deaths of animals and contamination of rivers.

“We have seen what happens in other areas where such plants operate — animals die and water sources are polluted. We cannot allow that to happen here,” said Oduo.

Another resident, Aloyce Okanda, expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of public participation and transparency in the project’s approval process. He said the land earmarked for the plant was originally designated for agricultural use and questioned why it was being converted to industrial use without gazettement or community consultation.

“We were never consulted. This land was meant for farming, not industry. Such changes must be made openly and with public input,” said Okanda.

Okanda also raised concerns about the absence of qualified chemical engineers and proper waste management plans, warning that the use of sodium cyanide in gold extraction could lead to air, water, and soil pollution.

Residents further noted that several ponds and rivers are located just a few meters from the proposed site. They fear that any leakage or improper disposal of waste from the plant could destroy the local ecosystem.

Ken Sika, another protester, emphasized that contamination of these water sources would directly threaten the community’s health and livelihood.

“We depend on these ponds for water. If they are polluted, it will endanger both our lives and our livestock,”he said.

The residents are now demanding that the project be halted until proper procedures are followed — including an environmental impact assessment, meaningful public participation, and the implementation of clear safety measures.

They stressed that while they are not opposed to development, it must be done responsibly and with full community involvement.

“We welcome development, but it should not come at the expense of our health and environment,” said Oduo.