Kibali advocates responsible Mining production
Cyril Mutombo, the Managing Director of Barrick RDC, discussed the criteria for responsible mining production and exploitation during a sponsored panel held by Glencore on June 16, 2023.
The panel primarily focused on mining development plans and the overall impact of sustainable development goals on corporate responsibilities.
According to Mutombo, responsible production or mining refers to operations that adhere to established standards and comply with legal requirements.
It encompasses meeting environmental standards and ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from the mining activities while respecting the environment.
Compliance with legal requirements is a fundamental aspect of responsible production. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), mining companies must adhere to the country’s laws.
The DRC’s law upholds the principle of freedom of access to mining prospecting throughout the national territory. However, individuals engaged in mining activities must first declare their intentions to the Mining Registry and obtain a prospecting certificate.
Previously, the mining sector in the DRC was governed by the Mining Code of 2002. However, the code was revised starting in 2012, leading to the promulgation of a new text in March 2018, with the aim of increasing public revenues to contribute to the country’s development. Kibali, in particular, ensures compliance with the Netherlands’ mining sector laws.
Responsible production also involves adhering to environmental norms and standards. It is unrealistic for any mining company to claim that its operations have no negative impact on the environment. However, it is essential to take measures to mitigate and manage these impacts to minimize harm to local communities.
Kibali, for instance, has a management plan in place that addresses environmental impact. The company conducts studies prior to commencing activities and seeks government approval.
The management plan is periodically revised and shared with communities to inform them about the potential impacts and risks associated with the projects. Kibali is committed to minimizing these risks through proactive actions.
Cyril Mutombo emphasizes that Kibali complies with all legal provisions in the DRC, as well as international requirements in the mining and environmental sectors.
In cases where the current regulations in the DRC are silent on specific issues, the company follows international standards of good practice.
Responsible production also entails respecting all stakeholders who are expected to benefit from the mining operation. These stakeholders include local communities, workers, and the government.
Kibali actively engages with local communities in accordance with applicable laws. They collaborate with these communities to establish specifications and launched selected projects in March 2022.
The total cost of the specifications agreed upon between Kibali and the local communities amounts to approximately $8,763,258 USD.
The well-being of workers is a priority for Kibali. The company invests in their training and prioritizes their health and safety through adherence to HSEC (health, safety, environment, and community) regulations. Kibali also emphasizes the employment of local workforce over expatriates.
Moreover, Kibali supports the development of the Congolese state through tax payments and royalties. In 2022 alone, the company contributed $1.2 billion USD in taxes and royalties to the Public Treasury of the DRC.
In conclusion, Cyril Mutombo affirms that Kibali demonstrates responsible production based on these factors, taking into account compliance with legal provisions, environmental standards, and the welfare of stakeholders involved.
