DRC Prime Minister Urged to Take Immediate Action Over Alleged Pollution and Health Damage Linked to Ruashi Mining
Investigation Urges DRC Government to Act Over Environmental and Health Impacts of Ruashi Mining in Lualaba
An investigation into the activities of Ruashi Mining has called on Democratic Republic of Congo Prime Minister Judith Suminwa to take urgent action over alleged environmental pollution and public health damage affecting communities in Kolwezi, the capital of Lualaba province.
The report describes a worsening environmental situation in the Biashara neighborhood, where residents have raised concerns about chemical emissions, air pollution, and the impact of mining operations on public health and local infrastructure.
According to the investigation, residents reported persistent chemical odors from acid ponds, smoke and fumes from the processing plant, and excessive noise linked to mining activities.
Several households also reported structural cracks in homes allegedly caused by ground vibrations from industrial operations.
The report further cites growing health concerns within nearby communities, including cases of respiratory illnesses, skin irritations, and recurrent nosebleeds.
Investigators also warned that both air and water quality in affected areas appear to have deteriorated.
Calls for urgent government intervention
The investigation recommends that Prime Minister Judith Suminwa implement immediate precautionary measures to stop harmful emissions and address environmental and health risks linked to mining activities in Kolwezi.
Investigators also called for stronger oversight and monitoring of mining operations across the city, including regular environmental inspections and epidemiological studies to better assess the long-term impact of mining on surrounding populations.
Among the key recommendations is the creation of designated buffer zones separating mining sites from residential communities in order to reduce exposure to pollution and industrial hazards.
Pressure on provincial and local authorities
The report also urges Lualaba provincial authorities and the Kolwezi city administration to take rapid action to mitigate the reported damage and strengthen environmental protection measures.
The mayor of Kolwezi was specifically encouraged to develop an urban expansion and resettlement plan for communities living near mining operations.
Investigators said affected residents should also receive support to address the environmental and health consequences associated with mining pollution.
Mining companies urged to address damage
The investigation further called on Metorex and Jinchuan Group, the parent companies of Ruashi Mining, to ensure their subsidiary complies with international due diligence and environmental responsibility standards.
The companies were urged to support remediation efforts and compensate for environmental and social damage linked to mining operations in Kolwezi.
Ruashi Mining itself was advised to immediately address the reported pollution by reducing harmful emissions, improving management of acid ponds, and increasing transparency and community participation in environmental and social impact assessments, in line with Congolese mining regulations.
Civil society continues advocacy
The report also encouraged civil society organizations and local advocacy groups to continue pressing for responsible mining practices while supporting communities affected by environmental degradation.
The investigation adds to growing scrutiny of mining-related environmental and social impacts in the DRC, one of the world’s leading producers of copper and cobalt, minerals critical to the global energy transition.
