Congo's Oil Production Tied to Agricultural Decline Amid Gas Flaring
The Republic of Congo's oil production activities have been linked to environmental damage and a decline in agricultural productivity. Farmers in the Kouilou department have reported significant drops in cassava harvests, with many fruit trees falling ill or drying up prematurely.
The residents attribute this decline to gas flaring by oil companies, which has contaminated the region's soil, water, and air beyond World Health Organization limits. The diocese of Pointe-Noire, along with Caritas, has co-authored a report highlighting the damage caused by Total, ENI, SNPC, and Wing Wah.
The use of gas flaring was banned in Congo in 2007 but was allowed with exceptions granted in 2022. Amnesty International criticized the authorities for not doing enough to ensure companies protect human and environmental rights in affected communities.