Minister Kizito Pakabomba Urges Local Communities to Leverage Mining Subsidies for Development
The Congolese Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, has called on decentralized territorial entities (ETDs) and communities in mining regions to establish clear and coherent development programs that effectively utilize the 0.3% subsidy from the turnover of mining companies, as mandated by current legislation.
During a press café held in Kinshasa on Thursday, Minister Pakabomba emphasized the importance of planning projects tailored to the specific needs of local communities, noting that these initiatives could significantly impact provincial development.
“The 0.3% of the turnover of industrial companies is allocated to local communities. This funding is managed by committees comprising representatives from the affected communities, along with representatives from the Ministry of Mines and Social Affairs, as well as the mining operators.
Together, they identify and define the projects that will be financed by this allocation. These projects must address the needs of the local community,” the minister explained.
Additionally, Minister Pakabomba urged mining companies to take greater responsibility and commitment in their operations. “Companies must implement initiatives to mitigate the impact of their activities on local communities, focusing on education, energy, and health,” he stated.
A report released in March by RAID UK and AFREWATCH highlighted the negative consequences of copper and cobalt mining on communities in the Katanga region.
It reported instances of water contamination and depletion, depriving hundreds of thousands of residents of their right to clean water and a healthy environment.
