French nuclear physicist arrives in Malawi over Kayerekela uranium mine

A French nuclear physicist, Bruno Chareyron, arrived in the country Tuesday to collect samples of water around the Kayerekela Uranium Mine which locals allege is contaminated with radioactive material.

A ceaseless war has ensued between Paladin Africa Limited (PAL) – miners at Kayerekela Mine – and local civil society organizations (CSOs) over the safety of the surrounding river system, following a spillage that occurred late last year.

 Nyasa Times correspondent in Karonga, Wezzie Banda, said “the debate forced Paladin to identify an independent consultant in November, 2014 to determine whether or not the water is contaminated” through its General Manager (International Affairs), Greg Walker.

Chairperson for the Natural Resources Justice Network (NRJN), that is spearheading the move, Kossam Munthali, told Nyasa Times earlier that they “believe the spillage contaminated the water surrounding Kayerekela hence the hiring of the French expert.”

The tests are going to be done in laboratories in France, and results are expected to be available to Malawians after three months.

Dust has always refused to settle at Kayerekela as a result of battles between PAL and local groups. In 2012, PAL faced another punch over alleged failure to fulfill social corporate responsibilities.