DRC Minister Suspends Congo Dongfang Mining After Effluent Spill in Lubumbashi
DR Congo Suspends CDM Mining Operations Following Major Environmental Incident in Lubumbashi
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 2 a.m., the National Minister of Mines, His Excellency Louis Watum Kabamba, arrived in Lubumbashi, Haut-Katanga Province, to assess a major environmental incident at the Congo Dongfang Mining (CDM) site.
Initial reports indicated that an overflow of industrial effluent from a discharge basin affected several nearby neighborhoods, raising serious concerns about public safety and environmental protection.
On-site inspections revealed significant shortcomings: the CDM discharge basin failed to meet international standards, lacking proper control, stability, and sealing measures, as well as an emergency response plan. These deficiencies led to water pollution, fish deaths, and contamination of the surrounding environment.
During a clarification meeting with CDM officials, Minister Watum Kabamba demanded detailed technical explanations and firm guarantees to prevent recurrence. Finding the responses inadequate, the Ministry immediately enacted precautionary and coercive measures.
As a result, the Minister of Mines suspended CDM operations at the site for an initial period of three months, which may be extended if necessary.
During this suspension, the company is required to:
Ensure full remuneration for all staff at the affected site.
Repair all environmental damage caused by the incident.
Compensate affected communities.
Pay penalties as stipulated by the Mining Code and current regulations.
Additionally, a joint technical commission will be established to conduct a thorough investigation, determine the exact causes of the incident, and establish accountability at all levels.
Through these actions, the Government of the Republic of Congo, via the Ministry of Mines, reaffirms its commitment to strictly enforcing environmental standards and promoting responsible, sustainable mining for national development and the well-being of the Congolese people.
