Contamination by heavy metals from mining activities: An ecological impact assessment of Mura and Kimpulande Rivers, Democratic Republic of the Congo

The contamination levels and distribution of heavy metals were assessed in riverbed sediments water column samples from Mura Kimpulande Rivers, both impacted by copper-cobalt gold mining activities. Analyses performed using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), atomic absorption (AAS), fluorescence (AFS). Results showed high concentrations Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Hg samples. rivers exceeded the limits set Democratic Republic Congo (DRC) legislation on requirements for mine discharges. High found also Cr, Pb, river against sediment quality guidelines protection aquatic life. Enrichment factor (EF) Geoaccumulation index (Igeo) values revealed extremely severe enrichment Co, Cd extreme pollution Cu Co demonstrating these rivers. results calculated ecologic risk factors that ecosystems investigated are at risk. Therefore, a review current practices is needed urgent enforcement good recommended order to protect environment public health.