South Kivu Governor Exposes Illegal Operations of Chinese Mining Companies
Jean-Jacques Purusi, the newly appointed governor of South Kivu province, has raised alarms over the presence of 147 Chinese-run mining companies operating illegally, many underground.
In his inauguration address to provincial officials last week, Governor Purusi highlighted the concentration of these operations in the territories of Fizi, Mwenga, and Shabunda.
According to Purusi, investigations by local authorities revealed that these companies possess expired permits dating back to 2013, 2014, and 2016, yet continue to operate without legal authorization.
“These companies, despite their illegal status, have the capacity to produce over 100 kilograms of gold within two months, with their activities going unmonitored,” Governor Purusi stated.
Acknowledging the complexities of the situation, Purusi disclosed that despite closures by provincial authorities, six Chinese-owned companies and three mining cooperatives had been reopened illicitly.
Even the Chinese embassy does not recognize these entities, complicating efforts for legal accountability and revenue collection.
“We have already engaged with the Chinese ambassador to enforce crackdowns, ensuring the province reclaims its dues from these illegal operations,” added Purusi, emphasizing ongoing efforts to identify and regulate these rogue entities.
While the issue has been raised at the national level in Kinshasa, previous inquiries by parliamentary commissions have yielded little progress.
Local mining stakeholders implicated in illegal activities have been apprehended and transferred for legal proceedings, but challenges persist in enforcing compliance.
Governor Purusi announced plans for a rigorous audit of these companies to ascertain accountability and responsibilities, urging public support in combating illicit mining activities.
