planetGOLD Suriname and KAMPOS engage with Brokopondo District Commissioner on responsible gold mining and FPIC

On 9 September 2026, planetGOLD Suriname and KAMPOS met with the District Commissioner of Brokopondo, Mr. Gregory van der Kamp.
During the meeting, Jerrel Pinas, Engagement Specialist with planetGOLD Suriname, provided an introduction to the planetGOLD project and its efforts to promote responsible and mercury-free artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Suriname.

Gaston Regie Agaasie-Koetoe, Director of KAMPOS, presented the initiative to develop Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) protocols for the ASGM sector. FPIC is important because it helps ensure that Indigenous and Tribal Peoples and local communities are properly informed, meaningfully consulted, and able to participate in decision-making before activities that may affect their communities, lands, resources, and livelihoods take place. The development of these protocols therefore contributes to more inclusive, transparent, and responsible decision-making within the ASGM sector.

Mr. Agaasie-Koetoe also emphasized the importance of engaging local and national stakeholders throughout the process and ensuring broad awareness and understanding of the protocols once they are developed and adopted.

The discussion also addressed mining hotspots in Brokopondo and the potential selection of a second pilot site for the planetGOLD project. Accessibility and safety were highlighted as important considerations in the selection process. The District Commissioner expressed his willingness to provide support as this process moves forward.

The meeting represents another important step in strengthening collaboration with local authorities and communities toward a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable gold mining sector in Suriname.

#planetGOLDSuriname #KAMPOS #FPIC #ASGM #Brokopondo #ResponsibleMining #MercuryFreeGold #SustainableMining