🌱🌍 EMSAGS Raises Awareness on Responsible Gold Mining During NMA Open Day
On Friday, July 24, 2026, the National Environmental Authority (NMA), with the support of the EMSAGS Project (Improving Environmental Management in the Mining Sector of Suriname, with Emphasis on Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining), organized an Open Day at TBL Cinemas. The event marked the second anniversary of the NMA and attracted approximately 190 visitors.
The event was officially opened by the Minister of Oil, Gas and Environment, Mr. Patrick Bruning. This was followed by a presentation from Ms. Vanuessa Gefferie, Director of the National Environmental Authority, who reflected on the NMA's development over the past two years and highlighted the organization's important role in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development in Suriname.
The primary objective of the Open Day was to introduce the public to the work of the NMA and to raise awareness of the importance of responsible environmental management. The event welcomed a diverse audience, including students and lecturers from the Anton de Kom University of Suriname (AdeKUS), Polytechnic College Suriname (PTC), the University of Applied Sciences and Technology (UNASAT), FHR School of Business, FHR Institute for Higher Education, NATIN, final-year students from technical secondary schools, representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the private sector, relevant government ministries, and members of the general public.
Visitors had the opportunity to explore the various areas of work of the NMA through a series of information and demonstration booths. These included Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is responsible for reviewing environmental impact assessments and advising on the potential environmental effects of proposed projects and developments. Other featured departments included Compliance Monitoring & Supervision, responsible for monitoring compliance with environmental legislation and conducting environmental inspections, and Data Management, which focuses on collecting, managing, and analyzing environmental data to support monitoring, policy development, and decision-making.
An interactive gaming room was also available, providing visitors with an engaging and educational way to learn more about environmental protection, sustainability, and the responsible management of natural resources.
The EMSAGS Project, which is implemented jointly with the NMA, was also represented with its own information booth. Project staff actively engaged with visitors, sharing information about the project's objectives, activities, and achievements. They explained how EMSAGS works together with government agencies, local communities, knowledge institutions, and the private sector to promote responsible artisanal and small-scale gold mining, capacity development, environmental protection, and the creation of sustainable alternative livelihoods.
By supporting the NMA Open Day, the EMSAGS Project reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration, knowledge sharing, and public awareness. Through initiatives such as this, EMSAGS continues to contribute to a future where sustainable economic development and environmental protection go hand in hand.
