DRC: Ongoing Debate Over Government Grants to Primera Sparks Controversy
The discussion surrounding the substantial benefits accorded by the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government to “Primera,” a United Arab Emirates-based company, remains unresolved, with a written inquiry from National Deputy Alfred Maisha rekindling the conversation nearly a year later.
While Alfred Maisha, a representative from Bukavu Ville in South Kivu, asserts that the DRC is losing ground in this matter, the government’s perspective diverges.
They view this initiative as a promising alternative to the systemic exploitation of raw materials in the eastern part of the DRC.
André Wameso, Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic and Financial Affairs, counters allegations of a gold exploitation monopoly by the United Arab Emirates company.
MP Alfred Maisha, accused of representing companies implicated in Congolese gold looting in South Kivu, supports this alleged monopoly.
Wameso clarifies, “We refer to a monopoly supposedly granted to Primera for SAKIMA SA permits. The Primera – SAKIMA SA agreement pertains to only 14 of 46 SAKIMA mining permits.
Where is the monopoly? We offer Primera exemptions outside the Mining Code, contrary to misconceptions. The Primera contract, verified by mining experts, aligns fully with our Mining Code.”
Continuing, he explains, “Exemptions are tied to Primera’s substantial investments in the region’s infrastructure. This includes over 2,200 km of roads, airport rehabilitation, and a power plant for the foundry’s operation.
Based on these infrastructure investments, Primera Metals seeks exemptions in accordance with our Investment Code. I am puzzled by this lack of good faith that led this parliamentary lawyer (Editor’s note: Alfred Maisha) to make such statements.”
Wameso further rebuts claims that the DRC would incur a loss of nearly $500 million USD per month due to the Primera contract. He expresses dismay that even notable figures like Dr. Dénis Mukwege have been misled by misinformation.
Addressing this claim, he states, “I’d like to address the famous $500 million USD per month that supposedly we would lose. To lose implies we had it and no longer do.
As a parliamentarian with budgetary control over state revenue, Alfred Maisha should explain where the $500 million USD, earned from artisanal gold and Coltan exploitation in South Kivu that benefitted the state budget, disappeared.
If this isn’t the case, he should demonstrate how we could suddenly generate $500 million USD monthly in the coming months. These extravagant figures are unsubstantiated.”
Since December 10, 2022, a partnership contract between the DRC and the United Arab Emirates has aimed to combat mining fraud in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This collaboration has given rise to two companies: Primera Gold DRC (focused on gold) and Primera Metals DRC (specializing in 3T minerals – Tin, Tungsten, Tantalum).
