-says hundreds of Brazilian prospectors invited into area
The Wapichan Wiizi Women’s Movement yesterday expressed deep concern over mining activities in Wapichan wiizi, especially at Marudi Mountain in Region Nine.
“We endorse and echo the statement released by the SRDC (South Rupununi District Council) on November 5 calling on the government to immediately suspend mining operations in the Marudi area. We call for mining to halt until our rights as Indigenous women, including our right to free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC), are upheld”, a statement from the group said yesterday.
They said that they were concerned that mining operators and the government had failed to involve them while making crucial decisions that affect their lands, safety, culture and environment.