DRC Minister of Mines Advocates for Reforms in Mining Sector at CAMI Press Café
The Mining Registry (CAMI) hosted its third press café on Thursday at the Pullman Hotel in Kinshasa, attended by the Congolese Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba.
During the event, Minister Pakabomba reiterated the government’s commitment to comprehensive reforms in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining sector.
Among the proposed reforms are the revitalization of the General Inspectorate of Mines (IGM) and the establishment of a regulatory and marketing authority for strategic minerals.
“We aim to collaborate with all stakeholders, including civil society and human rights and environmental organizations. Our goal is to clean up the mining sector by rehabilitating critical structures like the IGM and the new regulatory authority for strategic minerals,” Minister Pakabomba stated.
In light of ongoing illegal practices, the Minister issued a stern warning to both artisanal and industrial mining operators. He urged them to strictly adhere to the provisions of the mining code and regulations, emphasizing, “Any violator will face sanctions, which could include the revocation of their rights.”
Minister Pakabomba also called upon foreign partners to support the DRC’s efforts in responsibly developing its mineral resources.
“We urge them to recognize our minerals as products of responsible production and to purchase directly from the rightful owners, rather than relying on indirect channels and routes for acquiring these essential minerals, crucial for the global energy transition,” he stressed.
The Congolese government had previously taken steps to enhance sector control during the 94th Council of Ministers meeting on April 14, 2023, by adopting a decree to create and organize the General Inspectorate of Mines.
This body is tasked with combating fraud and mining smuggling while coordinating the efforts of various public services involved in addressing illegal practices within the mining sector.
