Lualaba Governor Addresses Artisanal Mining in the Province
Fifi Masuka, Governor of Lualaba province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), clarified the scale of artisanal mining operations in the region during a presentation of her first 100 days in office on Friday.
She corrected the misconception that 5,000 artisanal miners were operating in the province, stating the actual number is closer to 450,000.
“Sometimes, we manage them with patience and prayer,” Masuka remarked, acknowledging the potential dangers of large crowds of miners. “We’re fortunate they remain in the mines, where cooperatives organize them. However, the situation could escalate if they flood the streets,” she added.
Masuka emphasized that her administration is working to create a better framework for these miners, who often operate on private company sites or on concessions that lack the means for industrial exploitation. “Exploration is very costly, but we’re determined to provide a better working environment for them,” she said.
Despite challenges, the governor noted that artisanal miners contribute taxes to the province’s economy, benefiting the region. She also mentioned delays in opening the provincial trading center, emphasizing the importance of verifying the source of products to prevent the sale of stolen goods. “We cannot accept products that have been taken from private company sites,” she stressed.
Lualaba, rich in copper and cobalt reserves, remains a key location for artisanal mining. While the sector provides livelihoods for many, it also presents significant regulatory and safety challenges.
