DRC and Zambia urged to formulate robust policies for extraction and beneficiation of critical minerals
Joint calls from activists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia urge the governments of both nations to develop comprehensive policies regarding the extraction and enrichment of critical minerals, aligning them with industrial and economic transformation.
In a combined statement, civil society organizations have issued recommendations to the authorities of Congo and Zambia, emphasizing the immediate need for a targeted skills policy.
They stress the importance of training young Congolese and Zambians in vital skills and technology for the evolving industry. In the next five years, both countries should aim to enhance skill levels by utilizing existing educational institutions and collaborating with international experts to introduce specialized training for electric vehicle battery manufacturing.
The civil society groups urgently advocate for a comprehensive consultative process concerning the planned establishment of electric vehicle battery manufacturing in both nations.
They emphasize the necessity of ample space for engagement and consultation before finalizing any agreements, particularly those affecting the citizens’ interests.
“It’s imperative that both governments respect local land rights where the electric vehicle factories will operate. Resettlement procedures must align with relevant policies and legislation Local purchasing and transparency should be encouraged, corruption strictly penalized, and best practices maintained,” added the joint press release.
Additionally, the organizations from both countries have agreed to establish the “Pamoja Critical Minerals Forum.” This forum aims to oversee the implementation of the electric vehicle cooperation agreement and mobilize communities to hold the governments accountable.
“To ensure responsible mineral resource governance, every citizen’s participation in decisions affecting them is paramount. This right must be central to the battery initiative, spanning from project design to operations and decommissioning.
Learning from past irresponsible resource practices is crucial to avoiding their repetition,” concluded the civil society organizations from the DRC and Zambia.
