Dear Editor,
With a forecasted price of manganese (Mn) at $3.2 US per dry metric tonne unit and given that recent prices for some quality Mn could stay around the $6 US mark, the overall government earnings could be substantial for the 26M tonnes available over the projected 12-year period. However, Bosai’s business only makes approximately 10% profit and taxes. How much does the Guyanese government get and the structure of the contract is worth better understanding. Taking a small percentage from a business partner that also makes a small percentage is not a good long-term strategy to pursue, especially given the inherent damage to the environment associated with such an industry. Our preference should be towards investing in businesses that target above 15% net income and that are also bringing value- added products in its portfolio while being in alignment with our sustainable green strategy.
Manganese mining has been shown to have negative neurological effects on adults with exposure levels being dependent on the mining methodology used. Both airborne and waterborne exposure also has a negative impact on children in mining areas. Resulting farming produce in the area after mining may also be negatively impacted and deemed unhealthy. Referencing such case studies as the one on Molango in Mexico (one of the manganese mines in the world of similar potential as that found in Matthews Ridge) should be reviewed.
In addition, given the company’s history in Guyana, when one remembers the death of their employees in 2013, a close review of planned operations should be undertaken with the necessary safeguards put in place. The risk vs. the reward to the government raises many questions on the long-term plan for Region One and how to make the best long-term use of the proposed 45 thousand-plus acres to be utilized. This plan must also go beyond the 13 years proposed for the project and clearly show a strong linkage to our country’s sustainable environmental plan.
Yours faithfully,
Jamil Changlee
