Companies Boycott Minerals from Conflict Zones in Eastern DRC
Numerous companies have opted to refrain from purchasing minerals originating from areas under the control of M23/RDF rebels in Masisi territory, located in the province of North Kivu, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This strategic decision aims to halt the financing of armed groups and combat human rights abuses associated with mining activities in conflict zones.
Yvette Mwanza, the provincial president of the North Kivu Chamber of Mines, announced this collective boycott during an address to the local press.
She emphasized the need for strict adherence to international standards governing the mining sector, especially regarding minerals sourced from regions plagued by conflict.
“We cannot, in good conscience, procure minerals originating from Masisi territory. We are redirecting our focus to Walikale and Lubero, given the high-risk environment prevailing in conflict-affected areas,” stated Mwanza.
Despite the collective stance against purchasing minerals from Masisi, Justin Ndayishimiye, a national deputy for Masisi and coordinator of the Artisanal Miners’ Cooperative (COOPERAMA), revealed a concerning development.
He highlighted the ongoing exploitation of mineral resources by M23/RDF rebels, who have established a ministerial presence in the mining town of Rubaya.
“The rebels persist in pillaging minerals from Masisi, subsequently smuggling them into Rwanda,” Ndayishimiye asserted, adding that these minerals are being falsely labeled as Rwandan-origin before being marketed.
Ndayishimiye urged the international community to take decisive action to curb the systematic looting of Congo’s minerals by Rwanda, under the guise of M23 operations.
The Masisi territory in Eastern DRC is renowned for its abundance of natural resources, particularly coltan, accounting for approximately half of the world’s reserves.
However, the exploitation of these resources has fueled conflict and violence in the region, perpetuating instability and human suffering.
