DRC Welcomes US Sanctions on Rwandan Entities Over Alleged Illegal Gold Trade
DRC Welcomes US Sanctions on Rwandan Gold Refinery Over Alleged Illegal Mineral Trade in Eastern Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has welcomed recent sanctions imposed by the United States on Gasabo Gold Refinery in Rwanda, along with several individuals and companies accused of involvement in the illicit trade of gold originating from eastern DRC.
The Congolese government spokesperson and Minister of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya, said the measures reinforce Kinshasa’s longstanding claims that Rwanda is linked to the illegal exploitation of Congolese mineral resources.
He argued that the existence of a major gold refinery in Rwanda, despite limited domestic gold production, reflects what he described as systematic resource exploitation from neighbouring territories.
Muyaya further accused what he called a structured network facilitating the extraction and trafficking of minerals from conflict-affected areas, stating that the sanctions disrupt key elements of an alleged illicit supply chain involving state-linked actors.
According to him, the US action does not target a single company but instead affects a broader network connected to the movement and processing of gold from eastern DRC.
The Congolese minister also referenced earlier sanctions imposed on individuals linked to the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF), saying the cumulative measures demonstrate growing international attention to networks allegedly benefiting from instability in eastern Congo.
He added that stronger international pressure is necessary to curb resource trafficking linked to armed conflict in the region.
The US Treasury Department said the sanctions target Gasabo Gold Refinery, its executives, and several Rwandan companies accused of facilitating the movement of gold extracted from areas affected by armed group activity in eastern DRC.
Washington stated that the measures are intended to disrupt illicit financing networks and promote greater transparency in global mineral supply chains, in line with ongoing international efforts to address conflict-linked resource trade.
