DRC Minister of Mines Drives Economic Diversification and Environmental Standards in Katanga
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, is on a crucial mission to ensure that the mining sector plays a key role in the country’s economic diversification while adhering to environmental standards and benefiting local communities.
This mission, which began on August 15, 2024, in Greater Katanga, reflects the government’s commitment to maximizing the impact of the mining industry on the national economy and improving the living conditions of the Congolese people.
Accompanied by key officials including the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gécamines, Mr. Guy Robert Lukama Nkunzi, and the General Director of Gécamines, Mr. Placide Nkala, the Minister visited several major mining sites.
In Kolwezi, Lualaba, on August 16, Pakabomba toured the Kamoto Copper Company (KCC), a leading copper and cobalt producer.
This visit underscored the Minister’s dedication to ensuring the mining industry respects environmental regulations and optimizes economic returns for the DRC.
A strategic meeting with Gécamines’ management followed, focusing on the President’s vision for transparent and profitable mineral resource management.
The Minister also visited Kamoa Copper, where he observed the company’s efforts in responsible production and compliance with international standards.
Pakabomba commended Kamoa’s focus on sustainable production, highlighting the importance of managing mineral resources rigorously and responsibly.
On August 17, Pakabomba inspected the facilities of Metalkol, a subsidiary of the Eurasian Resources Group (ERG). He praised the company for its commitment to sustainable development and adherence to international environmental standards.
“Your efforts in sustainable development, alongside your copper and cobalt production, are commendable in a world facing escalating climate challenges,” Pakabomba stated.
He concluded his visit by signing a cathode sheet, symbolizing Metalkol’s production, and expressed satisfaction with the company’s job creation efforts and collaboration with local communities.
Throughout his mission, Pakabomba emphasized the social responsibility of mining companies, stressing their crucial role in local development.
He also visited Tenke Fungurume Mining, a model of sustainable development and community well-being. Here, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to make the mining sector a pillar of economic diversification and wealth creation.
The Minister also addressed the concerns of artisanal miners in Lualaba, who submitted a memorandum requesting the creation of artisanal mining zones. Pakabomba pledged to carefully consider their requests, seeking solutions that benefit all stakeholders.
The mission, which started in Lubumbashi, will continue until August 21, with visits to key sites including the Lubumbashi Slag Heap Processing Company (STL) in Haut-Katanga.
Minister Pakabomba is accompanied by a delegation of experts from the mining administration, including the Secretary General of Mines, Jacques Ramazani Lutuba, the Director General of the Mining Cadastre (CAMI), Popol Mabolia Yenga, and the Director General of the Assistance and Supervision Service for Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (SAEMAPE), Jean-Paul Kapongo Kadiobo, among others.
