Kibali Gold Mines Calls for Stronger Formalization of Artisanal Mining in the DRC
DRC Mining Week 2026: Kibali Gold Mines Highlights Need for Formalization and Environmental Control in Artisanal Mining Sector
The DRC Mining Week 2026 officially opened on Wednesday at the Karavia Hotel in Lubumbashi, bringing together government officials, mining companies, and industry stakeholders to discuss sustainable development of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s extractive sector.
During a panel discussion focused on artisanal and small-scale mining, Kibali Gold Mines Head of Social Affairs, Le Franc Basima, outlined the key challenges facing the sub-sector, emphasizing that formalization remains the most critical issue.
He noted that improving the artisanal mining framework requires the expansion of designated Artisanal Mining Zones (EMZs), better access to financing for mining cooperatives, and the establishment of regulated trading centers to reduce reliance on informal and illicit mineral buyers.
Formalization and coexistence challenges
Basima highlighted the ongoing challenge of coexistence between industrial mining operations and artisanal miners operating near concession areas, stressing the importance of continuous dialogue to prevent encroachment while supporting local livelihoods.
“The key issue for us is coexistence between our operations and artisanal miners located near our concessions.
Continuous communication is essential to avoid intrusion while supporting artisanal communities in their development,” he said.
He also acknowledged efforts by mining authorities to combat illegal mining activities, including operations aimed at removing unauthorized miners from industrial concession areas.
Environmental concerns in artisanal mining
Beyond governance and security issues, Basima underscored the environmental impact of artisanal mining in the DRC.
These activities are often associated with deforestation, soil degradation, water contamination, and the destruction of ecosystems.
He noted that these challenges are worsened by limited awareness of environmental regulations and weak enforcement of existing provisions under the Mining Code.
While mining cooperatives play an important role in formalization efforts, many still face difficulties in fully complying with environmental and social standards.
Community engagement and sustainable development
Kibali Gold Mines emphasized that structured engagement with local communities remains central to its sustainability strategy.
The company has established consultation mechanisms to engage stakeholders through both formal frameworks and direct dialogue.
“We have developed mechanisms to identify key stakeholders and engage with them through structured consultations and direct exchanges.
The objective is to ensure that no one is left behind and to better understand realities on the ground,” Basima said.
He added that long-term development requires a gradual transition from subsistence-based artisanal mining toward more productive and sustainable economic activities.
Planning beyond mine life
Basima also stressed the importance of preparing communities for the post-mining period by investing in alternative economic opportunities that can outlast mining operations.
According to Kibali Gold Mines, sustainable development planning must ensure that local economies remain viable after mine closure, helping communities transition away from dependency on mining activity.
Through its participation at DRC Mining Week 2026, Kibali Gold Mines reaffirmed its commitment to responsible mining practices that balance economic performance, environmental protection, and community development.
