Vital Kamerhe Calls for Reflection on DRC’s Mining Challenges
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), rich in minerals like cobalt, copper, and lithium, faces significant challenges in its extractive sector.
Despite its vast resources, issues such as illicit mining, environmental pollution, corruption, and poor working conditions persist.
On November 13, 2024, during a plenary session, President of the National Assembly Vital Kamerhe called for a reassessment of the country’s mining sector.
He highlighted the involvement of government officials, including some deputies and ministers, in illegal mining operations, and lamented the existence of “illegal protectors” in the sector.
Minister of Mines Kizito Pakabomba addressed the issue of illicit exploitation, particularly by foreign operators in North and South Kivu.
He revealed that untraceable gold, mined illegally in regions like Mwenga, Shabunda, and Fizi, is smuggled out of the country, depriving the DRC of much-needed revenue.
While reforms have been initiated, implementation has been slow due to resistance from local actors and ongoing insecurity. Kamerhe’s call for a national mining summit could pave the way for much-needed stability, reforms, and improvements in the mining sector, which remains a vital contributor to the DRC’s economy.
