President Tshisekedi Launches Mineral Certification System for Better Resource Management
On September 9, 2024, President Félix Tshisekedi initiated a groundbreaking project aimed at improving the management of natural resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by introducing a certification system for mineral reserves. This was announced during the first extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers.
The certification system marks a major step toward transparency and traceability in the mining sector, which plays a vital role in the country’s economy.
The system will ensure that each allocated mining concession is cataloged and assessed according to international standards, promoting fair and sustainable resource management.
The certification program is designed to safeguard national interests, particularly during trade negotiations, while providing assurances to investors.
It aims to boost confidence among international partners, who have long expressed concerns over corruption and illegal exploitation of resources in the DRC.
The Mining Cadastre (CAMI), the key institution responsible for managing mining concessions, will play a central role in the certification process.
President Tshisekedi emphasized the need for a comprehensive reform of CAMI to ensure that the allocation of mining rights is governed by strict, transparent criteria.
Strengthening the legal framework and imposing stringent penalties for non-compliance are critical to making the mining administration more reliable and reducing fraudulent practices.
This reform goes beyond resource management and opens up new opportunities for the Congolese economy. By providing a secure and transparent system for allocating mining rights, the DRC is better positioned to attract foreign investment—crucial for a country where mineral resources are a major driver of growth.
Enhanced transparency could also lead to a more equitable distribution of revenues generated by the mining sector, benefiting local communities.
The overhaul of the legal framework and increased transparency in managing mining concessions are expected to combat the corruption that has long hindered the country’s development. Moreover, the initiative aligns with principles of sustainability, ensuring that resources are preserved for future generations.
The introduction of a mineral reserve certification system could reshape the DRC’s mining industry. Experts believe that, if properly implemented, this reform will deliver multiple benefits, including increased investor confidence, fairness in the allocation of mining concessions, and higher state revenues—all within a framework of greater transparency and accountability.
