Emir seeks attention to mining communities in Zamfara

THE Emir of Zamfara, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad, has called the attention of the international community to the plight of communities ravaged by the lead poisoning, which killed more than 300 children about two years ago in the mining areas of the state.Ahmad told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in his palace recently that communities such as Bagega, Dareta, Tungan Daji in Anka and Yargalma in Bukkuyum, the worst-hit areas, were in desperate need of international assistance.He said that in spite of the inherent dangers and health hazards associated with mining, many local communities depended on it for their livelihood due to the level of poverty in the area.The emir noted that the situation was more worrisome because women had also joined the mining business by engaging in the processing of mineral debris while in search of precious stones.He further said that in spite of the availability of vast and quality mineral deposits of international standard, particularly in his domain, the people of the area lacked the basic amenities that could improve their living standards.He expressed regret that the 30-km Bagega-Anka road was in a deplorable condition, while other social services, including electricity and healthcare facilities were lacking.The traditional ruler called on the government to mobilise resources and address the needs of the mining communities by providing good roads, healthcare services and schools.Meanwhile, a resident of Bagega, Malam Husaini Abubakar, have called on the state government to complete the Bagega electricity project which started in 2004 and was later abandoned.Abubakar told NAN in Bagega Village that the project would facilitate economic and social development of the area
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