The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has lifted a suspension on mining operations in the South Kivu province, excluding gold extraction, as reported by Reuters. The decision follows discussions with mining operators after a temporary ban imposed last month due to unrest at mining sites.
Mining activities in South Kivu, primarily conducted by artisanal miners, involve the extraction of gold, tin ore (cassiterite), and the high-tech mineral coltan. In July 2024, the region's governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, suspended operations citing "disorder caused by the mining operators." He had stated at the time: "All companies, businesses, and cooperatives are required to leave the sites and operating locations within 72 hours."
A government spokesperson, in a recent statement, announced the lifting of the suspension, urging cooperatives, mining companies, and gold-buying outlets to resolve their tax obligations with relevant authorities. The spokesperson emphasised the government's objective to "transform the mining sector into a genuine lever for stability, wealth creation for all, and the socioeconomic development of South Kivu province."
Meanwhile, Bloomberg News reported in 2023 that privately held Congolese company Buenassa plans to build a copper-cobalt smelter in the DRC with an investment of $350 million (CnFr1 trillion). This government-supported proposal aims to formalise artisanal mining in the country. Financial consulting firm Delphos International has been appointed to assist Buenassa in securing funding for the project.
The decision to resume mining operations in South Kivu, while excluding gold extraction, highlights the complex and delicate nature of the DRC's mining sector. It remains to be seen how the government's efforts to regulate and formalise artisanal mining will impact the region's economy and social stability.
