In the village of Tshiende in western Congo, the expansion of oil operations has had detrimental effects on the community. Residents like Adore Ngaka have witnessed pollution of the soil, crop withering, and financial strain due to the proximity of oil drills to their homes. The French-British hydrocarbon company, Perenco, has been drilling in the Moanda territory since 2000, leading to increased pollution, spills, and flaring that have impacted the environment and residents' health.
While Perenco claims to adhere to international standards and minimize pollution, local communities and environmental groups have raised concerns about the long-term consequences of expanded drilling in Congo. The government's plans to auction 30 oil and gas blocks across the country have sparked debates about the trade-off between economic growth and environmental preservation.
