Governance - Copperbelt Katanga Mining

ARSP Issues Over 2,300 Registration Certificates to Entrepreneurs in Haut Katanga 1

The Regulatory Authority for Subcontracting in the Private Sector (ARSP) has issued more than 2,300 registration certificates to entrepreneurs in the Haut Katanga province. This milestone demonstrates the commitment of ARSP Director General Miguel Katemb to realizing the President’s vision of creating a Congolese middle class. The ceremony was led by provincial director Bijoux Mushitu Kat, who commended the ARSP’s dedication to supporting Congolese subcontractors and called for collective efforts to foster the emergence of a Congolese middle class. “In the name of the Director General of the ARSP, the… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

New DRC-China Mining Amendment Sparks Controversy and Concerns Over Transparency

June 7, 2024June 7, 2024 Constance

Signed on March 14, 2024, Amendment No. 5 between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Chinese Enterprise Group (GEC) regarding mining operations by Sino-Congolese Mines (Sicomines) continues to generate significant debate. The amendment, which trades mining rights for infrastructure development, has faced scrutiny since President Félix Tshisekedi took office in 2019, sparking a trade war between the United States and China over DRC’s mineral resources. During his visit to Kinshasa in August 2022, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pushed for the revision of mining… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

Judith Suminwa brings together her team to make contact

June 6, 2024June 6, 2024 Constance

The Congolese Prime Minister, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, gathered her team at the Government building in Kinshasa this Tuesday, June 4, 2024.On this occasion, the Head of Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo spoke with the Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers of State, Ministers, Delegate Ministers and Vice-Ministers, appointed by presidential order of May 28, 2024, around the preparations for the upcoming inauguration in the National Assembly. As required by the basic law, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa is expected at the National Assembly shortly to present her action program and seek… Read More Here

Mining in Zambia Economy Governance

President Hichilema Promises Unity, Law Enforcement, and Economic Recovery

June 6, 2024June 6, 2024 Constance

In a significant address to the nation yesterday, President Hakainde Hichilema outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on national unity, justice, and economic prosperity. President Hichilema emphasized Zambia’s heritage as a unified nation, denouncing divisive rhetoric and hate speech. He affirmed the government’s commitment to increasing penalties for theft, including essential infrastructure like electric cables. A landmark decision was announced to incorporate national unity-focused topics into the school curriculum, aiming to combat tribalism and hate speech among the youth. Addressing the rule of law, President Hichilema asserted that no individual, regardless… Read More Here

International Governance

Russia and Senegal Strengthen Ties with Economic Collaboration Plans

June 5, 2024June 5, 2024 Constance

Russia and Senegal, a West African country, have announced plans for deeper collaboration. In April, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova expressed confidence in Senegal’s newly elected president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, affirming that Russia’s ties with Senegal would be reinforced during his administration. The Russian newspaper Sputnik recently interviewed Russian Ambassador to Senegal Dmitry Kurakov, who disclosed Russia’s intention to enhance its partnership with Senegal under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s leadership. “We are looking forward to establishing a joint commission on economic cooperation. Now, it all depends on the Senegalese… Read More Here

Mining in Zambia Economy Governance

China Monitors Zambia’s Debt Restructuring, Pledges Continued Support

June 4, 2024June 4, 2024 Constance

China is closely monitoring negotiations surrounding Zambia’s debt restructuring and has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the African nation. At a recent press conference in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning emphasized China’s leading role in Zambia’s debt relief efforts. He noted that China was the first official creditor to offer debt relief and co-chaired the Committee of Official Creditors, which played a key role in achieving significant progress on restructuring Zambia’s debt. Mao Ning stated China’s intention to continue collaborating with relevant parties to monitor the progress of… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

President Tshisekedi Fires Intelligence Chief Following Failed Coup Attempt

June 1, 2024June 1, 2024 Constance

President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has swiftly responded to a recent failed coup attempt by removing Daniel Lusadisu from his position as the head of the National Intelligence Agency (ANR). This decisive action is part of Tshisekedi’s broader efforts to strengthen national security after the attempted overthrow threatened the country’s stability. Lusadisu’s dismissal was confirmed by the government on Friday, following a direct order from President Tshisekedi. The President, known for his commitment to reform and fortify national security measures, is reportedly planning additional changes within… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

DRC – Patrick Muyaya Reappointed as Minister of Communication and Media

May 31, 2024May 31, 2024 Constance

Patrick Muyaya has been reappointed as Minister of Communication and Media in the Suminwa Government. Muyaya is one of the few ministers who have served through the Sama I, Sama II, and now Suminwa administrations. Initially appointed in the Sama I Government, Muyaya brought a vision of changing the narrative by enhancing the country’s image nationally and internationally through strategic institutional communication. As the government spokesperson, he aimed to present the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a positive light. During his second term in the Sama II Government, Muyaya… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

Kizito Pakabomba Appointed Minister of Mines in New Congolese Government

May 31, 2024May 31, 2024 Constance

Kizito Pakabomba has been appointed Minister of Mines in the new government of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka. In his first statement, Pakabomba expressed his gratitude and commitment: “I am deeply honored to have been appointed Minister of Mines. I give thanks to the Lord God. I thank the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister for their trust. I am determined to serve our country with dedication and integrity.” Pakabomba brings over 20 years of international experience in the oil and energy sector, primarily with the TOTAL Group… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

ARSP CEO Reaffirms Subcontracting Authority Against GECAMINES Interference

May 31, 2024May 31, 2024 Constance

In a letter addressed to the General Director of GECAMINES SA, CEO Miguel Kashal Katemb of the Regulatory Authority for Subcontracting in the Private Sector (ARSP) responded to an attempt by GECAMINES to obstruct recommendations for subcontractors to Tenke Fungurume Mining (TFM). Katemb emphasized ARSP’s legal authority in promoting local entrepreneurs. “As a commercial company operating in the mining sector, GECAMINES SA’s corporate purpose includes prospecting, research, and exploitation of mineral deposits, processing of mineral substances, and their marketing. GECAMINES SA has no particular prerogative to manage subcontracting activities in… Read More Here