planetGOLD Suriname and Medical Mission work together for healthier communities

As part of the implementation of the planetGOLD Suriname project, a joint field visit to Lebi Doti was conducted from 21 to 23 January, in collaboration with the Medical Mission (MZ). The visit included a travel and courtesy meeting and the further advancement of community awareness activities under the theme “Working Together for Healthier Communities.”

Lebi Doti is a small maroon village located in the Brokopondo Reservoir, in the heart of Suriname. Upon arrival, the joint team met with the traditional leadership to explain the purpose of the visit. The village leadership welcomed the initiative and expressed their support.

Through this project, planetGOLD Suriname aims not only to reduce the use of mercury in artisanal and small-scale gold mining, but also to strengthen awareness of mercury’s health and environmental impacts. By working closely with Medical Mission and local communities, the project contributes to stronger, better-informed, and healthier living environments.

planetGOLD Suriname is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aimed at reducing mercury use in Suriname’s artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, in line with the Minamata Convention, with financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).