A report by Enact Africa details how illegal mining in Senegal, particularly in the south-eastern Kedougou region, has caused immense tax revenue losses and severe environmental degradation. Illegal miners, predominantly Chinese groups, entered Kedougou in 2017, where they initially operated in buffer zones by paying legitimate local Ghanaian companies for the use of their licences to mine illegally. Following this illegal activity, the region has faced severe water pollution. The Niokolo-Koba National Park, a protected zone, has also been infiltrated by illegal miners, damaging the ecosystem. Bribery and corruption fuel in large part this illegal mining in the region. . Indeed, bribes ranging from CFA 12 million to 16 million (US$20,491 to US$27,321) per week are paid to local officials and park authorities to allow mining operations to continue. Bribes also extend to local leaders, who are paid to remain silent about the environmental damage and community disruptions. Overall, it is estimated that the Senegalese government loses approximately CFA 4 billion (US$6.83 million) annually due to illegal mining activities. The corruption and illegal mining practices also harm local economies, exacerbating poverty and limiting legitimate economic development.