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Oil survey sparks eviction worries
2008-03-30 09:40:43
By Ally Hengo, PST, Rufiji
Peasant residents of Nambunju Village in Mbwara Ward of Rufiji District, Coast Region, are highly apprehensive of ongoing oil exploration survey at the village, fearing they will be evicted from it once the presence of oil is established.
They told legislator Zaynabu Vullu (Special Seats – CCM) during a visit to the district that they determine to resist any attempt to force them out of the place without prior consultations.
Parliamentarian Vullu calmed them down by saying: ``The government will not remain silent in case of discerned ill-treatment of the people.
If oil is discovered proper arrangements and necessary preparations will be carried out to have everything in place. This will include compensation and enough time to establish new settlements.``
Fear is gripping the entire area as the residents counted on unusual movement of surveyors from one Dominion Oil and Gas Company LTD, who were collecting data from the land, especially at Nambunju,Tungi and Marendego villages in the area.
Ward Executive Officer Alli Mkikiwa confirmed to have received a copy of exploration permit indicating that a Dar es Salaam based JSB Envideg Company was authorized to conduct survey in the area on behalf of Dominion Oil and Gas Company LTD.
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