Title: “Controversy around the mining contract in the DRC: a shortfall for the nation”
Introduction :
Mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a major challenge for the country’s economic development. However, recently, a controversial contract between the Congolese government and the Emirati firm Primera has sparked strong reactions. According to information revealed by the elected representative of the electoral district of Bukavu, Alfred Maisha, this contract grants Primera exorbitant advantages for the exploitation of gold, cassiterite and cobalt in the provinces of North and South Kivu. as well as Maniema. This situation creates a real shortfall for the DRC and raises questions about the practices of the mining sector. In this article, we will analyze in detail the contours of this contract and its consequences for the country.
Unfair advantages granted to Primera:
According to information provided by Alfred Maisha, the advantages granted to Primera in this contract are particularly favorable for the Emirati company, but disadvantageous for the DRC. While Congolese companies pay 12% of the value of each export mineral shipment, Primera will only pay 3.5%. This difference in treatment represents a considerable financial loss for the DRC, estimated at 500 million dollars per month for the three provinces concerned, for 25 years. In addition, Primera benefits from a privileged tax regime and numerous exemptions, which generates scandalous reductions.
A questioning of the sovereignty of the DRC:
What also arouses outrage is the clause that the DRC would waive its right to sovereignty and the attached immunities in the event of litigation or arbitral decisions. In other words, if Primera were to obtain a judgment against the DRC, the country could see its assets, including symbols of sovereignty such as the Palais du Peuple or the Palais de la Nation, seized. This calls into question the protection of national interests and places the DRC in a weak position vis-à-vis Emirati society.
An organized mafia in the mining sector:
The revelations made by Alfred Maisha shed light on the existence of an organized mafia in the mining sector in the DRC. The contract with Primera raises questions about mining contracting and management practices in the country. Thorough investigation is essential to bring these fraudulent practices to light and ensure transparency and fairness in the industry.
Conclusion :
The controversial contract between the Congolese government and the Emirati company Primera for mining in the DRC raises many questions and sparks outrage among the population. The advantages granted to Primera, the questioning of the sovereignty of the DRC and the existence of an organized mafia in the mining sector endanger the national interests and the economic development of the country