DRC Launches Crackdown on Illegal Mining Activities in Kolwezi to Protect National Resources
DRC’s National Commission Intensifies Fight Against Illegal Mining and Unauthorized Operators in Kolwezi
An official mission from the National Commission for the Fight against Mining Fraud (CNLFM) has been deployed in Kolwezi, Lualaba Province, to investigate widespread illegal artisanal mining and unauthorized operations by men in uniform and foreigners using heavy machinery on mining company sites. This information was confirmed by local sources in the mining hub on July 31, 2025.
According to reports, heavy machinery was found operating illegally within protected areas on the Metalkol site.
These discoveries highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to secure mining concessions and safeguard the country’s valuable mineral resources.
The CNLFM’s discreet but thorough mission covered both the KCC and Metalkol mining sites. Their on-site observations revealed numerous violations of established mining regulations, underscoring the extent of illegal activities currently undermining the sector.
The Commission is committed to continuing its investigations and plans to intensify enforcement actions in collaboration with security forces and mining operators in the coming days.
President Félix Tshisekedi has expressed serious concern about the working conditions of artisanal miners and the escalating tensions between artisanal miners and industrial mining companies in Kolwezi.
During a recent visit to the province, he emphasized that many artisanal miners, who rely on mining to support their families, are deprived of legally designated mining areas.
“As a result, numerous miners resort to illegal operations within company concessions, leading to repeated conflicts,” government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya reported.
The situation is further complicated by the involvement of unscrupulous economic actors exploiting the sector.
In response to these ongoing issues, President Tshisekedi announced several corrective measures during the 47th Council of Ministers held in Kolwezi.
These include the rapid identification and delimitation of legal artisanal mining zones, negotiations with mining companies—including Gécamines—to release certain areas for artisanal mining, and strengthening the operational capacities of ARECOMS, the regulatory body for artisanal mining.
Additionally, security support will be coordinated between the Governor of Lualaba, the Ministry of the Interior, and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
“It is essential to establish clearly defined zones reserved exclusively for artisanal mining, along with an organizational framework that allows these miners to work with dignity,” declared President Tshisekedi.
The mining sector remains a crucial contributor to the DRC’s state budget and overall economic growth.
Prime Minister Judith Suminwa reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting the mining industry as a driver of national development.
Speaking during the first anniversary of her inauguration in June 2025, she highlighted partnerships with industrial players as key to generating revenue and improving infrastructure and energy.
“For example, KCC rehabilitated two turbines at Inga 3. When these projects succeed, they truly advance the country’s development.
The government is ready to collaborate with industries to realize this potential,” Prime Minister Suminwa concluded.
