Governor’s Decision to Resume Tin Mining in North Kivu Sparks Controversy and Criticism
The decision by North Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Perusi to authorize the resumption of tin mining activities has sparked significant controversy. National Deputy Trésor Lutala has strongly criticized the move.
In a letter to the Governor, Trésor Lutala expressed deep concerns about the potential impact of this decision on local communities.
He highlighted that the specifications meant to safeguard the interests of local populations and ensure responsible mining practices have not yet been signed by the involved companies.
Lutala questioned the legality of lifting the suspension and worried that local populations might continue to suffer from mining activities without receiving any benefits.
“The primary concern of the South Kivu population is whether a mere harmonization is sufficient for lifting the suspension without adherence to the specifications designed to protect local communities in line with the existing mining code. These communities are directly affected by the negative impacts of mining,” Lutala stated.
He further added, “As the elected representative of the people, I observed during my parliamentary recess in South Kivu that none of the cooperatives, mining companies, processing entities, gold purchasing counters, or dredger owners have signed the specifications acknowledging the local populations’ share in all related activities, from extraction to production.”
According to Lutala, mining stakeholders should first comply with the signed specifications and the Mining Code, with appropriate oversight. “Ignoring this procedure would constitute illegal practice driven by unprofessional motives,” he emphasized.
Lutala warned that resuming mining activities without the required signatures could foster illegal and non-transparent practices in the sector.
He urged provincial authorities to ensure that the interests of local populations are fully considered in the management of mining operations.
On August 15, 2024, Governor Jean-Jacques Perusi issued a press release announcing the resumption of routine mining activities across various sites, informing all mining operators, technical and administrative services, and partners involved.
