South Kivu Governor Lifts Suspension on Mining Companies
The Governor of South Kivu, Jean Jacques Purusi, has announced the lifting of measures that suspended mining operations across the province. This decision was revealed during an interview with mining operators last Monday.
Governor Purusi stated that compliant companies are now permitted to resume their activities, but a control team will be deployed to oversee operations.
“Today, we are opening all mining activities throughout South Kivu. We urge companies that are not in compliance to get organized.
A team will be on the ground to investigate each company to ensure that the minerals extracted contribute to development and do not lead to conflicts or the suffering of our populations,” he said.
He further explained that twelve conditions must be met by mining companies before they can resume operations. A commission has been established to monitor compliance and assess the viability of these mining entities and cooperatives.
The governor warned that violations of these conditions will result in consequences.
“We have instructed companies to establish offices within the province and to create representations in the territories. We also require them to contribute to the province’s development, and many have responded positively.
Additionally, they must pay any outstanding fines to both provincial and national authorities, as well as to local communities as outlined in the specifications.
We demand that all equipment used be declared and that taxes owed to the state be settled. Finally, we have requested that these companies support the construction of certain roads, and we are pleased that many have committed to this initiative,” he added.
This marks the second measure to lift mining restrictions in South Kivu, following a recent initiative concerning 3T minerals.
On July 18, 2024, Governor Purusi signed provincial decree No. 24/246/GP/SK OF 07/18/2024, which imposed a suspension on all mining activities within the province.
Shortly after, more than 540 mining companies and cooperatives operating illegally were identified, leading to a clean-up effort in the sector.
