Decree on mining royalties adopted by the Congolese government
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recently adopted a draft decree entitled “Decree specifying the methods of collection and distribution of mining royalties”. This decision was taken during the hundred and eighth meeting of the Council of Ministers which took place on Friday, August 11, 2023.
This decree aims to implement the provisions of the current mining law and the law on the protection and reparation of victims of conflict-related sexual violence. In particular, it provides for the allocation of 11% of the mining royalty to a Fund responsible for supporting access to justice, reparation, empowerment and recovery of communities who are victims of this violence and their heirs.
According to the report of the Council of Ministers, this text complies with the relevant articles of the law on the creation of a support fund for victims. It also provides for a redistribution of revenue from mining royalties, with an allocation of 44% for the central government, 23% for the provincial administrations, 14% for the decentralized territorial entities, 11% for the Support Fund for Victims and 8 % for the Mining Fund for Future Generations.
This decision aims to ensure better use and fair distribution of revenues from mining in the DRC. By allocating part of the levy to victims of conflict-related sexual violence, the government shows its commitment to take into account the specific needs of these communities and to support them in their process of reparation and recovery.
This initiative is part of a broader desire to strengthen transparency and accountability in the mining sector in the DRC. Equitable management of mining revenues is essential for the economic development of the country and to ensure the well-being of local populations.
In conclusion, the decree on mining royalties adopted by the Congolese government demonstrates the desire to promote responsible mining and to support communities that are victims of conflict-related sexual violence. This decision marks an important step in the equitable management of mineral resources in the DRC and paves the way for sustainable and inclusive development for the whole country