DRC Mines Ministry Intensifies Drive for Stronger Anti-Pollution Enforcement in Mining and Industrial Sectors
DRC Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba Urges Interministerial Commission to Deliver Concrete Anti-Pollution Measures
On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the Minister of Mines of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Louis Watum Kabamba, received members of the Interministerial Commission tasked with combating pollution in mining, oil, and industrial zones.
The delegation, composed of experts and representatives from several key institutions including the Presidency of the Republic, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministries of Mines, Environment, and Higher and University Education met with the Minister to present a mid-term progress report on its ongoing work.
The Commission also outlined remaining steps required to complete its assigned mission.
During the meeting, the delegation sought strategic guidance from the supervisory authority to improve coordination between institutions and ensure the effective implementation and timely completion of its environmental mandate.
Minister Kabamba welcomed the progress made so far, commending the Commission’s efforts and reaffirming the government’s full support for its work.
He emphasized that environmental management has become a critical challenge for the mining sector, describing pollution control as an urgent priority requiring practical, responsible, and sustainable solutions.
He further urged the Commission to move beyond assessments and produce concrete, actionable proposals aimed at strengthening environmental governance, preventing pollution impacts, and improving protection for affected communities.
The Minister also reiterated the government’s expectation that the Commission deliver measurable results, stressing that environmental accountability must be integrated into the country’s broader mining development strategy.
This initiative aligns with the national vision led by President Félix Tshisekedi, under the coordination of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, which seeks to promote responsible mining practices that balance economic development with environmental protection and the well-being of local communities.
