DRC Cracks Down on Illegal Mining Activities Near Maiko National Park Amid Environmental Concerns
DRC Suspends Mining Operations Near Maiko National Park Over Alleged Environmental and Legal Violations
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has intensified its crackdown on mining operations deemed irregular in environmentally sensitive areas.
In a statement issued on June 2, 2026, the Minister of Mines, Louis Watum Kabamba, ordered the immediate and precautionary suspension of activities carried out by two companies holding exploration permits near Maiko National Park.
The decision concerns exploration permits No. 16591 and No. 16594, granted respectively to Stone Mining SARLU and Xin Hong Kuan Ye SARL.
Regulatory and Environmental Concerns
According to the Ministry of Mines, the suspension follows alerts issued by the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN), which notified authorities in April of potential breaches of both environmental and mining regulations within the protected zone.
The government accuses the two companies of serious violations, including the alleged misuse of exploration permits.
Although authorized only for exploration, the companies are reportedly engaged in extraction activities, which is prohibited under the DRC Mining Code unless a valid exploitation permit has been granted.
Authorities also cite possible breaches of environmental protection laws governing activities near protected areas.
The sites in question are located close to Maiko National Park, one of the country’s most important biodiversity reserves.
Security and Field Risks
More concerning for authorities is the reported presence of unidentified armed individuals operating in the area.
This raises additional security risks in a region already affected by instability and the activity of armed groups.
Government Investigation Launched
To clarify responsibilities and verify the allegations on the ground, the government has announced the deployment of an interministerial investigative mission.
The team will include representatives from the Ministries of Mines, Environment, Interior, and Defense.
Depending on the findings, the authorities may impose stronger sanctions, including the permanent withdrawal of mining titles and possible legal proceedings against those found responsible for violations.
Environmental Pressure on a Protected Ecosystem
This case highlights the ongoing tension between mineral exploitation and environmental protection in eastern DRC.
Established in 1970, Maiko National Park covers more than 10,800 km² across the provinces of Tshopo, Maniema, and North Kivu. It is home to several endangered species, including the Okapi, the Congo peacock, and the Eastern lowland gorilla.
Despite its protected status, the park continues to face significant pressure from illegal mining, poaching, deforestation, and insecurity linked to armed groups.
Since assuming office in August 2025, Minister Louis Watum Kabamba has introduced measures aimed at strengthening governance in the mining sector, with a focus on transparency, traceability of minerals, and enforcement of environmental standards.
The suspension of Stone Mining SARLU and Xin Hong Kuan Ye SARL is seen as an early and tangible demonstration of this policy shift, as the government seeks to balance resource development with the protection of the country’s natural heritage and ecological assets.
