Gold traceability in the Great Lakes region: a crucial issue for responsible and ethical trade
In a world increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability and ethics in business practices, the issue of gold traceability is of paramount importance. It is in this context that Prime Minister Sama Lukonde recently called on the member states of the ICGLR (International Conference on the Great Lakes Region) to strengthen the traceability of gold in their region.
During the Regional Forum on gold mining held in Kinshasa, the Prime Minister underlined the importance of promoting more responsible, more ethical and sustainable trade in this precious raw material across the Great Lakes. According to Sama Lukonde, improving the traceability of gold will ensure transparency in the supply chain and combat illegal practices such as trading in gold from unsustainable or irresponsibly mined sources.
This forum, organized by the ICGLR Secretariat and the government of the DRC, aims to implement a strategy for artisanal and small-scale gold mining in the Great Lakes region. Participants are invited to share their knowledge and experiences in order to find concrete solutions to ensure peace, security, stability and sustainable development in the region.
It is important to emphasize that this initiative is not limited to the fight against illegal practices. Indeed, promoting gold traceability also opens the way to new economic opportunities for ICGLR member countries. By responsibly and sustainably exploiting the region’s gold resources, it is possible to stimulate economic growth and development in the Great Lakes. This also helps strengthen the confidence of international players and investors in the region, thus promoting trade and economic partnerships.
However, it should be noted that gold traceability cannot be implemented in isolation. It requires close cooperation between ICGLR member states, as well as with other regional and international actors. It is crucial that each member country actively works to improve the transparency of the artisanal gold supply chain, while highlighting the specific opportunities and strengths of their territory.
In conclusion, the traceability of gold in the Great Lakes region is a major issue for promoting responsible, ethical and sustainable trade. By increasing transparency in the artisanal gold supply chain, ICGLR member states can unlock new economic opportunities while preserving the region’s natural resources. It is essential that this initiative is supported by close cooperation between member countries and by the commitment of the international community in the fight against the illegal gold trade.