Unchecked Mining in DRC’s South Kivu Raises Concerns Over Illegal Activity and Environmental Harm

South Kivu, a province rich in tin, tungsten, niobium, tantalum, rare earths, and gold deposits in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), faces persistent security challenges that deter large industry investors from entering the area.

Instead, mining is largely conducted by cooperatives and foreign firms, especially those with Chinese capital. Many operate with impunity, often in violation of DRC’s mining regulations, and with the alleged support of powerful figures.

A prominent example is Tong Li Resources, a Chinese company involved in gold mining in South Kivu and neighboring Maniema Province.

Despite holding a research permit (PR 15158), Tong Li Resources began gold extraction in Lumbwe, Fizi, in September. Gold is not included in their permit, making this activity a violation of DRC’s Mining Code and regulations.

“We face numerous issues with these mining companies,” stated a South Kivu judicial source. “Some hold exploration permits but engage in extraction, which contravenes mining laws. Tong Li Resources, for instance, has been mining gold in South Kivu for a month without the appropriate authorization.”

The firm is reported to have support from influential Congolese stakeholders, with local supervisors overseeing both mining operations and external relations.

During a recent inspection, company representatives admitted that Tong Li only held a research permit and claimed steps were underway to secure an exploitation permit.

Illegal mining operations are widespread, with companies frequently evading regulatory oversight, neglecting environmental protections, and failing to declare profits.

Governor Jacques Pulusi estimates that nearly 500 companies in South Kivu alone export around 100 kilograms of gold monthly, with each kilogram valued at $65,000 to $80,000 on the global market.

These companies often use harmful chemicals, leading to environmental damage, such as the drying of rivers and severe harm to local communities.

In response to this unregulated mining, the South Kivu provincial government had previously imposed a temporary suspension of all mining activities.

This decision, enacted through the Provincial Assembly, aimed to restore order, protect local populations, and ensure traceability of extracted minerals.

However, the suspension was lifted last August, raising questions about the future management of South Kivu’s valuable resources.